Scheme of the Month - New Road City Centre Shared Space, Brighton
New Road in Brighton & Hove has been radically transformed into a shared space, offering two way cycle access, cycle parking and one way access for motor vehicles in the heart of the city centre. Adjacent to the Royal Pavilion and local theatres, New Road had improved cyclist permeability into the city-centre and will eventually become part of the National Cycle Network. The scheme was officially opened in July 2007 in typically unique Brighton & Hove style: Dancing in the street.
Brighton & Hove is one of six Cycling Demonstration Towns and is keen to deliver real urban improvements that enhance the relationship between all road users. Designed by Copenhagen based Jan Gehl Architects with Landscape Projects, kerblines, lining and the majority of signing has been removed, with quality granite paving, seating and outside eating and drinking areas increased. The project is the result of a two year design and consultation process, involving a range of local stakeholders and expertise. Relationships with local businesses were key to ensuring the successful increase in outdoor eating and drinking areas, creating a café culture in a calm oasis.
The £1.4m scheme is predominately funded by the City Council’s Local Transport Plan. Two way cycle access without lining or signing relies on the trust and integrity of all road users to respect each-other, and results from cognitive mapping focusing on where people sit, linger and rest in the area. Work with the city’s disability groups throughout the design process has ensured that as many needs as possible are catered for. For instance, a defined, straight tapping line for individuals with visual impairments at the side of the scheme through the installation of a slight up-stand in the surfacing has been well received. New Road results from a comprehensive city-wide legibility study which focuses in detail on the way that people move around the city from an urban design and transport perspective.
Impact:
Pre and post scheme monitoring reveals substantial increases in cycling with considerable reductions in the number of motor vehicles on New Road:
- 93% reduction in the number of motor vehicles (12,000 fewer per day)
- 22% increase in the number of cyclists (100 more per day)
- New Road has become the city’s fourth most popular visitor attraction.
To find out more about New Road and the work of the Brighton & Hove Cycling Demonstration Town project, contact Dean Spears, Principal Transport Planner: 01273 293856, or visit the city’s sustainable travel planning website: www.journeyon.co.uk
