Author: Eve Leeks

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Engage • Inspire • Learn

Access for all – designing inclusive spaces

Members of the public using temporary ramps

Inclusivity in Infrastructure

Temporary measures introduced through Spaces for People are designed to protect public health and facilitate essential journeys for all groups, including those with additional support and mobility needs.

In support of this, Sustrans are working closely with local authorities to ensure that people with disabilities and other affected groups are considered appropriately throughout every project.

Today, we’re joined by Ali MacDonald, Organisational Lead for Healthy and Active Environments, Public Health Scotland as well as David Hunter, Independent Consultant at Mobility Access Committe Scotland (MACS) to discuss appropriate accessibility provisions across a variety of contexts in temporary infrastructure design.

Temporary ramps provide a quick, simple and cost-effective solution to the mobility needs of those maneuvering a wheelchair, pram or a walker. Market Square, Fraserburgh. Abermedia/Sustrans

Main Considerations

In terms of specific measures, please consider:

  • Many disabled people are more reliant on their cars and taxis than
    others. Appropriate provision must be made for parking, access etc.
  • Safe space for pedestrians should be separate from cyclists.
  • Pavements should be kept free of obstacles/clutter, including roadworks. signs, bins, encroaching vegetation. These can be a particular hazard for visually impaired people and constrain footways for everyone.
  • Any areas separated off to provide extra walking or cycle space must take into account how disabled people can get on or off the pavement; this is especially important at bus stops.
  • Barriers (for example used to delineate a temporary pavement from a traffic lane) should be detectable by a blind person using a long cane.
  • Attention should be given to making sure enforcement (for example of traffic speed, parking/cycling on pavements) is effective.

Further guidance on how to design inclusive walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure in response to Covid-19 can be found here.

Questions Answered

  • How do we ensure that projects meet the needs of everyone?
  • How can we effectively consider the needs of disabled people without deepening existing health inequalities?
  • What are the accessibility considerations around removing things from the streetscape to create more space?

Note: the examples shown are in no way prescriptive and are for information only. Where specific products are shown in this document, this does not constitute Sustrans’ endorsement of that product.

Categories
Engage • Inspire • Learn

Global temporary infrastructure

Temporary lanes in Berlin
Countries all over the world have responded to the Covid-19 pandemic with creative and effective temporary infrastructure solutions to help protect public health.

What has happened around the world?

From Bogota to Milan, and Winnipeg to Brighton; all around the world, countries have responded to the continuing Covid-19 pandemic through the installation of temporary infrastructure measures in order to promote effective physical distancing and protect public health.

Temporary cycle lanes were installed across Berlin to make it easier for cyclists to complete essential journeys.

In Paris, ‘Corona Cycleways’ link up the city for active travel in order to help facilitate safer travel while also safeguarding against severe congestion as people become more wary use public transport.

Aukland, meanwhile, has removed parking spaces in order to extend the footways of busy streets, utilising basic materials such as planter boxes and colourful paint.

Regardless of geographical location and the measures being adopted, however, once thing is clear – people everywhere are reevaluating how we use shared spaces and the ways we move within them.

How can we learn from this?

In this knowledge sharing session, Infrastructure Officers for Sustrans Sam Valentine, Daniel Jeffs and Poppea Daniel discuss the transformative temporary infrastructure changes taking place outside of Scotland in a bid to inspire Scottish local authorities implementing their own.

Across the various case studies presented, three types of temporary measures are discussed:

  1. Pavement widening
  2. Temporary Cycle lanes
  3. Open Streets

To learn more about what is happening elsewhere in the world to promote safe walking and cycling during the Covid-19 pandemic, click here.

Note: the examples shown are in no way prescriptive and are for information only. Where specific products are shown in this document, this does not constitute Sustrans’ endorsement of that product. This webinar was recorded early June, and was up to date at the time of recording.

Categories
Engage • Inspire • Learn

Re-imagining public spaces after Covid-19

colourful crossings
How public spaces will operate as lockdown restrictions are eased is key. Here, we look at how we can make the most of public spaces to safeguard community health going forward.

Thinking for the Future

As lockdown restrictions are further eased throughout Scotland, we can begin to look beyond the simple but nonetheless effective space reallocation measures that have already been implemented by local authorities, and instead consider how we can re-imagine the design of our public spaces so as to be more conducive with public health.

In this knowledge sharing session, Infrastructure Officer for Sustrans Dan Jeffs provides a comprehensive oversight of how reallocated spaces in towns and cities can be re-imagined through simple, affordable and inspiring measures.

Practical design installations can be not only visually appealing but also serve as positive reinforcements of where space is prioritised in the street. Essex, London (Avenue of Art Initiative)

The Case for Change

In all likelihood, there will be an extended period of time within which physical distancing guidelines are prescribed by UK government. This, however, needs to be compatible with people’s legitimate needs to move around in order for society to function.

Ensuring people are able to safely access their places of work, receive essential healthcare, exercise in parks, shop for groceries, and get their children to school are all crucial components of how we design temporary infrastructure and utilise space going forward.

In addition to this, and in a broader more holistic sense, how we move around our local areas has a big impact on our wellbeing. Walking, cycling or wheeling in fresh air is not only positive for physical health, but also helps people feel connected in times of increased isolation.

As such, adapting infrastructure to be more visually appealing and meaningful to communities is also an invaluable untaking.

“Streets need to be adapted to play a broader role in people’s general wellbeing, by offering a social, cultural and community experience”

Dan Jeffs, Infrastructure Officer, Sustrans
Art and infrastructure design can complement one another in a multitude of ways in order to effect positive behaviour change in our streets. London (Better Bankside)

How this can help

  • Making spaces function better – to assist physical distancing
  • Helping to moderate driver – safeguarding cyclists and pedestrian using reallocated carriageway space
  • Creating multi-sensory environments – to support people’s well-being by creating pleasant and attractive spaces for people to socialise and feel connected
  • Designs for everyone – to appeal to a broader range of user groups, defined by age, ability and purpose
  • Encouraging people to be/stay active – whether through walking, cycling, wheeling or playing
  • Building cultural/community connections – to communicate a shared sense of place and community 
  • Giving people a greater sense of ownership – likely to reduce upkeep and maintenance
  • Set out an exciting vision – to be inspired and inspire others
  • Gauging public response – to assess the climate for broader range of permanent interventions
  • Re-invigorating high streets and commercial areas – to safely allow people to shop, rest and socialise within these spaces

Note: the examples shown are in no way prescriptive and are for information only. Where specific products are shown in this document, this does not constitute Sustrans’ endorsement of that product.

Categories
Spaces for People

Professional briefing on Spaces for People

Why is Spaces for People important for health and wellbeing?

Ensuring that everyone is equally able to move around their local area safely to meet their needs while adhering to physical distancing adjustments is important for the health and wellbeing of the population. [i]Douglas MJ et al. Health and Transport: A Guide. Scottish Health and Inequalities Impact Assessment Network; 2018. www.scotphn.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Transport-Guide2018-Final-Formatted.pdf [ii]Cooper E et al. Transport, health, and wellbeing: An evidence review for the Department for Transport. NatCen; 2019. … Continue reading [iii]NHS Health Scotland Place and Communities Inequality Briefing. NHS Health Scotland; 2016. www.healthscotland.scot/publications/place-and-communities

  • It increases opportunities for social interactions which are important in reducing social isolation and maintaining good mental health
  • It enables access to work, education and training as well as local resources that are essential to maintaining good health
  • It enables access to services including health and social care services

Where this involves walking, wheeling and cycling for all or part of a journey it also increases levels of physical activity and contributes to improved physical and mental health and wellbeing for adults and children. For example regular physical activities can reduce the risk of developing obesity, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and mental health problems and can improve mood. [iv]Public Health England. Spatial Planning for Health. An evidence resource for planning and designing healthier places. Public Health England; 2017. … Continue reading [v] Douglas MJ et al. Health and Transport: A Guide. Scottish Health and Inequalities Impact Assessment Network; 2018. www.scotphn.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Transport-Guide2018-Final-Formatted.pdf [vi]Scottish Government National Transport Strategy: Protecting our climate and improving our lives. Edinburgh: Scottish Government Edinburgh; 2019. … Continue reading

The Scottish Government’s Transport Transitions Plan encourages walking, wheeling and cycling, where possible as an alternative to using public transport, and if using public transport, to be mindful of the restrictions in place.

Creation of additional local safe, high quality space and good quality routes through road reallocation and a review of traffic and parking arrangements is a vital part of our response to maintaining a safe physical distance, improving the environment, providing protection from traffic and promoting good health and wellbeing.

Challenges to moving safely

Increase in road traffic

There can be tensions and conflict between different transport modes. As restrictions are further relaxed, the number of people moving will continue to increase while the requirement to maintain physical distancing will remain. More people will return to work, education and training and people may want to access local facilities including shops and outdoor cafes.

This might help to reinvigorate the local economy but will also increase the pressure on local spaces.

Data from Transport Scotland collected during the lockdown and phase 1 of the transition, show that walking and cycling increased during this period. However there has also been a gradual increase in car journeys following an initial large reduction at the start of lockdown. [vii]Transport Scotland Covid-19 Transport Trend Data. https://www.transport.gov.scot/publications/?topic=63625

There were early indications that on certain roads (some motorways and trunk roads) the proportion of vehicles recording over the speed limits had risen during the period of the lockdown although the actual number of vehicles observed speeding had fallen by approximately 50% compared with a typical weekday or weekend prior to COVID restrictions. [viii]Parliamentary question on Covid-10 and answers by the Scottish Government Friday 15 May 2020. www.parliament.scot/S5ChamberOffice/20200515.pdf

An increasing volume of traffic on roads, some of which may be speeding, may impact on people’s safety when walking, wheeling or cycling and it is important to act to maintain the initial increase in active travel levels in the medium and longer term.

Transport Inequalities

Transport options are more limited for some households. For example:

  • Around 29% of households don’t have access to a car. This is more likely amongst low income and single pensioner households. [ix]Transport Scotland. Scottish Transport Statistics No. 38 2019 Edition. Edinburgh: Transport Scotland; 2020. https://www.transport.gov.scot/publication/scottish-transport-statistics-no-38-2019-edition/
  • Those on low income are more likely to travel by bus and walk to work and have less access to bicycles. [x]Transport and Travel in Scotland 2018: Results from the Scottish Household Survey: … Continue reading This can determine access to services and facilities.
  • A higher proportion of those with long term conditions “affecting day to day living a lot” compared with those with no long term limiting health problems do not have access to a car. [xi]Transport Scotland. Scottish Transport Statistics No. 38 2019 Edition. Edinburgh: Transport Scotland; 2020. https://www.transport.gov.scot/publication/scottish-transport-statistics-no-38-2019-edition/ Disabled people and those with long term health problems also experience significant transport barriers and often have more limited choices.[xii]Gates S et al. Transport and inequality: An evidence review for the Department for Transport. … Continue reading [xiii]Scottish Government National Transport Strategy: Protecting our climate and improving our lives. Edinburgh: Scottish Government Edinburgh; 2019. … Continue reading In relation to walking, wheeling and cycling, these barriers include the allocation and condition of road space.
  • Over a million people are at risk of transport poverty (Sustrans define this as people are deemed to be at risk of transport poverty when they don’t have access to essential services or work due to limited affordable transport options) in Scotland. Risk of transport poverty is considered to be greatest in areas with (relatively) low income, high car availability and low access to essential services by public transport. [xiv]Transport Poverty in Scotland, Sustrans 2016. www.sustrans.org.uk/media/2880/transport_poverty_in_scotland_2016.pdf

Current disruptions to and concern about the use of public transport [xv]COVID-19 Public Attitudes Survey Data: Wave 3. https://www.transport.gov.scot/publications/?topic=63625 may reduce the ability of these groups to reach essential employment and services, socially interact and undertake exercise or recreation. This will be particularly challenging for those who do not have access to private vehicles.

Developing the active travel infrastructure can increase transport options, particularly for these groups. [xvi]National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Physical activity and the environment Public Health Guideline ng90. 2018. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng90 [xvii]Scottish Government National Transport Strategy: Protecting our climate and improving our lives. Edinburgh: Scottish Government Edinburgh; 2019. … Continue reading This means considering for example targeting the measures at the most deprived areas as well as routes which are especially unsafe or dangerous, so more people from these areas feel that they have better environments in which they can walk, wheel and cycle safely in their local areas.

This should be accompanied locally by measures that will address the barriers to active travel including those that improve perceptions of personal safety such as maintenance and lighting, inclusive cycling initiatives, cycling training programmes and provision of bike storage facilities.

Reducing the health impacts from road transport

Enabling greater levels of active travel will also go some way to reduce the negative impacts of road traffic on health and health inequalities. These include higher levels of traffic [xviii]NHS Health Scotland Place and Communities Inequality Briefing. Edinburgh: NHS Health Scotland; 2016. www.healthscotland.scot/publications/place-and-communities which increases exposure to air and noise pollution [xix]The Marmot Review: Implications for Spatial planning www.instituteofhealthequity.org/resources-reports/the-marmot-review-implications-forspacial-planning ; road traffic accidents [xx]The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents ‘Social Factors in Road Safety’ Policy Paper www.rospa.com/rospaweb/docs/advice-services/road-safety/social-factors-in-roadsafety.pdf ; injuries to both transport users and pedestrians; and community severance. [xxi]Douglas MJ et al. Health and Transport: A Guide. Scottish Health and Inequalities ImpactAssessment Network; 2018. … Continue reading

People in the poorest areas and those living on lower incomes are more likely to experience these impacts [xxii]Pearce JR, Richardson EA, Mitchell RJ, Shortt NK. Environmental justice and health: the implications of the socio-spatial distribution of multiple environmental deprivation for healthinequalities in … Continue reading even though they are less likely to have access to a car. People in low income communities are at higher risk from road crashes [xxiii] Douglas MJ et al. Health and Transport: A Guide. Scottish Health and Inequalities Impact Assessment Network; 2018. www.scotphn.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Transport-Guide2018-Final-Formatted.pdf and children on foot or bike in the most 20% deprived areas in Scotland areas are three times more likely to be involved in road accidents compared to the 20% least deprived areas. [xxiv]Geddes I, Allen J, Allen M, Morrisey L. The Marmot Review: Implications for Spatial planning. … Continue reading

Increasing the infrastructure for active travel can help reduce these negative health impacts particularly for those in the poorest areas and with the lowest incomes, as well as improving the environment. Following lockdown there were signs that air pollution caused by traffic, i.e. nitrogen dioxide levels, may have reduced. [xxv]A SPICE blog on air pollution during covid-19 lockdown. www.spicespotlight.scot/2020/05/07/guest-blog-has-the-coronavirus-covid-19-lockdown-reduced-airpollution/

Supporting people to continue to walk, cycle or wheel safely rather than use the car, especially for short local journeys, will help to maintain improved air quality with benefits for health and wellbeing. Lowering speed limits and introducing traffic calming measures, such as 20mph zones, has been found to reduce the risk of injury and death for pedestrians and cyclists. Targeting efforts to those neighbourhoods most in need can contribute to a reduction in inequalities in road casualties. [xxvi]NHS Health Scotland Place and Communities Inequality Briefing. Edinburgh: NHS Health Scotland; 2016. www.healthscotland.scot/publications/place-and-communities

In Summary

Measures to reduce the spread of Covid 19 are currently and will continue to influence the way we move around our communities. This presents challenges for those groups who experience few transport options. The measures funded by ‘Spaces for People’ have huge potential to support safe and active travel during the COVID-19 pandemic and as restrictions
are lifted.

Working with communities and linking with local public health and health improvement departments will help ensure that Spaces for People meets the needs of the local populations. This will help to protect and improve their health and wellbeing in both the short and longer term, and support the move towards a greener recovery.

You can download this article as a PDF here.

Ali MacDonald

Organisational Lead for Active, Healthy Environments,
Public Health Scotland

    References

    References
    ↑i Douglas MJ et al. Health and Transport: A Guide. Scottish Health and Inequalities Impact Assessment Network; 2018. www.scotphn.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Transport-Guide2018-Final-Formatted.pdf
    ↑ii Cooper E et al. Transport, health, and wellbeing: An evidence review for the Department for Transport. NatCen; 2019. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/847884/Transport__health_and_wellbeing.pdf
    ↑iii NHS Health Scotland Place and Communities Inequality Briefing. NHS Health Scotland; 2016. www.healthscotland.scot/publications/place-and-communities
    ↑iv Public Health England. Spatial Planning for Health. An evidence resource for planning and designing healthier places. Public Health England; 2017. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/spatial-planning-for-health-evidence-review
    ↑v, ↑xxiii Douglas MJ et al. Health and Transport: A Guide. Scottish Health and Inequalities Impact Assessment Network; 2018. www.scotphn.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Transport-Guide2018-Final-Formatted.pdf
    ↑vi, ↑xiii, ↑xvii Scottish Government National Transport Strategy: Protecting our climate and improving our lives. Edinburgh: Scottish Government Edinburgh; 2019. www.transport.gov.scot/media/47052/national-transport-strategy.pdf
    ↑vii Transport Scotland Covid-19 Transport Trend Data. https://www.transport.gov.scot/publications/?topic=63625
    ↑viii Parliamentary question on Covid-10 and answers by the Scottish Government Friday 15 May 2020. www.parliament.scot/S5ChamberOffice/20200515.pdf
    ↑ix, ↑xi Transport Scotland. Scottish Transport Statistics No. 38 2019 Edition. Edinburgh: Transport Scotland; 2020. https://www.transport.gov.scot/publication/scottish-transport-statistics-no-38-2019-edition/
    ↑x Transport and Travel in Scotland 2018: Results from the Scottish Household Survey: https://www.transport.gov.scot/publication/transport-and-travel-in-scotland-results-from-thescottish-household-survey-1/
    ↑xii Gates S et al. Transport and inequality: An evidence review for the Department for Transport. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/843487/Transport_and_inequality_report.pdf
    ↑xiv Transport Poverty in Scotland, Sustrans 2016. www.sustrans.org.uk/media/2880/transport_poverty_in_scotland_2016.pdf
    ↑xv COVID-19 Public Attitudes Survey Data: Wave 3. https://www.transport.gov.scot/publications/?topic=63625
    ↑xvi National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Physical activity and the environment Public Health Guideline ng90. 2018. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng90
    ↑xviii, ↑xxvi NHS Health Scotland Place and Communities Inequality Briefing. Edinburgh: NHS Health Scotland; 2016. www.healthscotland.scot/publications/place-and-communities
    ↑xix The Marmot Review: Implications for Spatial planning www.instituteofhealthequity.org/resources-reports/the-marmot-review-implications-forspacial-planning
    ↑xx The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents ‘Social Factors in Road Safety’ Policy Paper www.rospa.com/rospaweb/docs/advice-services/road-safety/social-factors-in-roadsafety.pdf
    ↑xxi Douglas MJ et al. Health and Transport: A Guide. Scottish Health and Inequalities Impact
    Assessment Network; 2018. https://www.scotphn.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/TransportGuide-2018-Final-Formatted.pdf
    ↑xxii Pearce JR, Richardson EA, Mitchell RJ, Shortt NK. Environmental justice and health: the implications of the socio-spatial distribution of multiple environmental deprivation for health
    inequalities in the United Kingdom. Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers 2010; 35(4): 522-539
    ↑xxiv Geddes I, Allen J, Allen M, Morrisey L. The Marmot Review: Implications for Spatial planning. http://www.instituteofhealthequity.org/resources-reports/the-marmot-reviewimplications-for-spacial-planning
    ↑xxv A SPICE blog on air pollution during covid-19 lockdown. www.spicespotlight.scot/2020/05/07/guest-blog-has-the-coronavirus-covid-19-lockdown-reduced-airpollution/
    Categories
    Engage • Inspire • Learn SfP

    Sustrans’ Spaces for People offer

    This graphic illustrates how different temporary interventions vary in suitability depending on their implementation period. Atkins.
    Sustrans officers provide an overview of the support package available to partners through Spaces for People, from newly published design guidance to quick wins using Commonplace.

    What we can do

    Continuing with our online discussion and workshops sessions, this week Principal Engineer with Sustrans Paul Cronin guides you through the support we are able to offer local authorities and statutory bodies in relation to the Spaces for People programme.

    As a quick overview, below are the key areas we are able to assist with:

    • Identification of network planning and engagement priorities
    • Design of concept and detailed general arrangements
    • Procurement and contract management to support implementation
    • Communication feedback and the interpretation of monitoring data

    Different Sustrans officers delve into the specifics of what this support looks like. A brief summary of this is provided below.

    Design guidance

    Over the past few months, Sustrans have been working in collaboration with engineering and design consultancy Atkins in order to provide our partners with a comprehensive roadmap of temporary infrastructure designs that will support public health through Covid-19.

    Sustrans Senior Urban Designer René Lindsay talks through the guidance as it relates to walking and wheeling, cycling routes, traffic management and signage options.

    This graphic illustrates how different temporary interventions vary in suitability depending on their implementation period. Atkins.

    You can keep up to date with the latest published guidance on our dedicated Design Guidance Showcase page.

    Network planning and mapping in Edinburgh

    Infrastructure Coordinators for Sustrans Alasdair Anderson and Angus Calder provide key insights into the provisions City of Edinburgh Council have set forward as part of their Spaces for People programme.

    This focusses on improvements designed to enhanced the city’s existing bus network, providing physically distanced access to shopping streets and essential services, as well a widespread modal shift towards active travel through improved segregation on arterial routes.

    To assist with this, Sustrans have mapped pavements widths throughout the city using ArcGIS and Python software in order to help determine the most effective locations for temporary interventions to be implemented.

    “Edinburgh have taken a genuinely really ambitious, city-wide, strategic approach”.

    Angus Calder, Infrastrucutre Coordinator, Sustrans

    Commonplace tips

    A number of local authorities are using Commonplace for their Spaces for People projects in order to gather public feedback on proposed interventions as well as encourage participation in designs.

    East Renfrewshire Council received support from Sustrans in utilising Commonplace to maximise public participation in the design of temporary interventions.

    Using the East Renfrewshire Commonplace as a case study, Community Engagement Officer for Sustrans Tremaine Bilham demonstrates how best to secure quick wins and maximise the opportunities available when using the engagement tool.

    Union Street, Dundee

    Using the plans to close Union Street in Dundee to traffic as an example, Infrastructure Officer for Sustrans Injoanna Lai outlines the potential temporary interventions that could be put in place in similar layouts to support public health and active travel.

    Union Street in Dundee is set to be closed to traffic in order to allow greater physical distancing for pedestrians and cyclists. Paul Reid/Sustrans.

    Research and monitoring support

    Martin Laban, Evaluation Manager with our Research and Monitoring Unit (RMU), provides an overview of the types project monitoring support Sustrans are able to offer partners, and the data collection strategies employed therein.

    In particular, take a look at how our Space to Move platform has provided a rich and live dataset on the temporary measures being implemented throughout the UK so far and how the public has responded to this.

    Questions answered

    • What support is Sustrans able to offer local authorities through its Spaces for People programme?
    • What does our design guidance say? How can our design guidance help partners implement the most effective temporary interventions?
    • How can local authorities make the best use of Commonplace?
    • What support can our Research and Monitoring Unit offer.

    Stay Updated

    New knowledge sharing sessions such as this one will be published on our Showcase website each week.

    Learn more about the Spaces for People programme on our dedicated Showcase page.

    Why not keep up to date with the latest Spaces for People programme developments by signing up to our Spaces for People newsletter?

    Note: the examples shown are in no way prescriptive and are for information only. Where specific products are shown in this document, this does not constitute Sustrans’ endorsement of that product.

    Categories
    Engage • Inspire • Learn SfP

    Edinburgh’s response to Covid-19

    road closure signs in Edinburgh
    Social Distancing Roads During Covid Virus Crisis, Edinburgh, Sun 03/05/2020: Silverknowes Road, Edinburgh. Photography for Sustrans Scotland from: Colin Hattersley Photography - www.colinhattersley.com - cphattersley@gmail.com - 07974 957 388.
    Phil Noble and Chris McGarvey from City of Edinburgh Council discuss creating temporary infrastructure in response to Covid-19.

    Knowledge Sharing

    As part of the roll-out of our new temporary infrastructure programme, Spaces for People, Sustrans Scotland is hosting a series of online discussions and workshops in collaboration with local authorities.

    These sessions will share best tips and guidance on how local authorities can respond to Covid-19 effectively through facilitating safe and accessible active travel routes for life after lockdown.

    Spaces for People offers funding and support to make it safer for people who choose to walk, cycle or wheel for essential trips and exercise during Covid-19. The programme is funded by the Scottish Government and managed by Sustrans Scotland.

    Silverknowes Road in Edinburgh was one of the first road closures to be made in Scotland in response to Covid-19 in order to allow space for people to exercise safely. Colin Hattersley/Sustrans

    Thinking on your feet

    As lockdown restrictions ease, maintaining physical distancing will need to address a greater number of permitted activities.

    In our first session, Phil Noble and Chris McGarvey from City of Edinburgh Council discuss their approach to these tackling these issues and on how they are providing temporary infrastructure in response to Covid-19.

    “We’re looking at a city wide programme which will be trying to give people greater choice, particularly to cycle”.

    Phil Noble, Active Travel Team Leader, City of Edinburgh Council
    A once busy throughfare in the heart of Edinburgh, Waverley Bridge is now almost entirely empty. Streets such as this one are set to undergo changes in order to promote physical distancing. Neil Hanna/Sustrans

    City of Edinburgh Council applied for Spaces for People funding shortly after the programme was announced.

    In total, they have received £5 million for temporary infrastructure projects.

    “There hasn’t been a decision to implement this beyond the emergency, but I think we can learn a lot of lessons from the things that we do. It might even help change people’s opinions, they might really enjoy wider footways and the benefits that cycle lanes provide”.

    Chris McGarvey, Senior Transport Team Leader, City of Edinburgh Council

    With work well underway in various parts of Edinburgh, it is hoped that the proposals will make the essential journeys of key workers easier and safer over the coming months.

    Questions answered

    • How are City of Edinburgh Council prioritising which streets/neighbourhoods should be addressed?
    • How do City of Edinburgh Council plan to implement temporary changes in an agile and quick way, and what have they learnt so far from those they’ve implemented to date?
    • What temporary measures are they considering and why?

    Stay Updated

    More knowledge sharing discussions such as this one will be posted in the weeks to come.

    Learn more about the Spaces for People programme on our dedicated Showcase page.

    Why not keep up to date with the latest Spaces for People programme developments by signing up to our Spaces for People newsletter?

    Categories
    Case Studies News

    New community artwork is unveiled through Small Grants Fund in Glasgow

    This piece is part of a series on the South City Way Small Grants Fund. This fund was created to inspire community groups and charities to design artworks and gathering places which encourage walking and cycling. Find out more about the South City Way.

    In recent years, significant media attention has focussed on the perceived and often real cultural tensions that are seen to be present in the Govanhill area of Glasgow.

    In an effort to combat this and foster new community-led integration, Govanhill Baths Community Trust (GBCT) launched a successful application with Sustrans’ Places for Everyone programme, through the South City Way Small Grants Fund.

    A Diverse Picture

    Led by GBCT, and delivered in partnership with Southside Studios, Locavore, Romano Lav, Annette Street Primary School & Cuthbertson Primary School, the Govanhill Arts Regeneration Network (GARN) proposes a number of high profile public art pieces be installed in key sites around Govanhill in order to reflect the unique cultural diversity of the local area.

    Initial designs for the installations were developed following a wide-ranging community consultation, including a charrette, in order to ensure the proposals were inclusive, as well as to facilitate a sense of ownership.

    The four installations that were ultimately agreed upon will be located at various points along Victoria Road, the key route of the initial leg of the South City Way.

    The Bowman Street Mural, situated at the intersection of Victoria Street and Bowman Street features images designed by the Govanhill Youth Club on the theme of cycling and urban landscape.

    The imagery was created by the young people with the aid of design and workshop sessions facilitated by local artist Amelia Rowe.

    “I think murals like this are important because they’re accessible to everybody, everybody sees them when they’re going about – they’re free.”

    Amelia Rowe, Artist

    Nadine Gorency, who led The Bowman Street Mural project on behalf of the GBCT, has been a vocal supporter of community-building initiatives such as this one which could help to promote greater integration in the Govanhill Community.

    “The Bowman Street Mural celebrates the diversity of Govanhill with the local community through the arts as well as provide colour and vibrancy to the cycle lane which will in turn encourage cycling, health and wellbeing in Govanhill.”

    Nadine Gorency, Project Manager, GBCT

    In addition to fostering strengthened social ties, it is hoped the new mural will serve as an attractive rest opportunity for cyclists on the South City Way, increasing support for the local economy whilst also providing a safe cycle route to the city centre.

    Categories
    Case Studies News Places for Everyone

    Young artists create new mural on Glasgow’s South City Way

    The charity name Crossroads and Youth Community Association is spread across the wall against the backdrop of a pastoral meadow. A quote from the group’s founder, Geoff Shaw, is also included, and reads: “Everyone has the right to live gloriously!”
    The finished mural at The Barn youth space on Abbotsford Place.

    Run by Crossroads Youth & Community Association, The Barn is a space for young people in Laurieston and the Greater Gorbals to relax, have fun and receive the support that they need.

    Youth Workers at the charity had been looking for a bold and creative way to make their organisation a destination point, in a way that also included the local community.

    Their application to the South City Way Small Grants Fund proposed installing an artwork designed by young people in the area on at the front of their building.

    Creative Planning

    Created to inspire local community and charity groups to propose new gathering places and artworks along Glasgow’s South City Way, the Small Grants Fund offered these groups the chance to apply for a share of over £100,000 to fund their projects.

     The funding inspired local young people to tour the murals and street art around Glasgow in order to develop their own ideas. This took them along cycle paths and into unfamiliar parts of the city that they wouldn’t usually see.

    The group then put their designs together for the new collective artwork on Abbotsford Place. A local artist was recruited to help with this process as well as to assist with spraying the final piece on the wall.

    The charity name Crossroads and Youth Community Association is spread across the wall against the backdrop of a pastoral meadow. A quote from the group’s founder, Geoff Shaw, is also included, and reads: “Everyone has the right to live gloriously!”
    The finished collective artwork at the youth centre on Abbotsford Place.

    The completed piece sees the community group’s name Crossroads and Youth Community Association spread across the wall against the backdrop of a pastoral meadow. A quote from the group’s founder, Geoff Shaw, is also included, and reads: “Everyone has the right to live gloriously!”

    They also installed planters and bike racks at the front of the centre.

    Local Impact

    Crossroads and Youth Community Association youth worker Nick Miller, saw The Barn project through to completion from the start.

    ‘Now you’re just drawn to the building, and through that we’ve had people dropping in and grabbing teas and coffees. We’ve had people taking photographs of stuff, and just leaving a couple of pounds donation. So hopefully it just draws more people to the building’.

    Nick Miller, Youth Worker, Crossroads Youth and Community Association

    Sustrans Officer Michael Melton, is delighted with the enrichment of the South City Way.

    “The Barn stands out now as a safe and creative hub for young people to gather. The mural is a really valuable addition to the South City Way route and a great example of exactly what the Small Grants Fund is for”.

    Michael Melton, Infrastructure Coordinator

    This piece is part of a series on the South City Way Small Grants Fund. This fund was created to inspire community groups and charities to design artworks and gathering places which encourage walking and cycling. Find out more about the South City Way.

    Categories
    Case Studies Engineering News

    Off-road Midlothian walking and cycling link to support new housing development

    Gilmerton to Shawfair ramp, Midlothian ©2019, Sustrans Scotland
    An accessible ramp on a new traffic-free cycling and walking route connecting the Gilmerton and Shawfair communities in Midlothian. The route was identified by Sustrans Scotland as a priority for development due to the prospect of new housing being built in the area, with limited active travel routes to local amenities and lack of awareness of key commuter routes to Edinburgh city centre. ©2019, Sustrans Scotland
    Gilmerton to Shawfair ramp, Midlothian ©2019, Sustrans Scotland
    An accessible ramp on a new traffic-free cycling and walking route connecting the Gilmerton and Shawfair communities in Midlothian. ©2019, Sustrans Scotland

    Project managed by Sustrans Scotland’s Engineering team, and delivered in partnership with City of Edinburgh Council, Midlothian Council and contractors, RJ McLeod, the project aimed to anticipate the travel needs of future residents of a new housing development set for construction along the former railway line.

    By creating arterial active travel infrastructure ahead of the housing development, Sustrans’ aim was to anticipate and shape the travel and leisure habits of future residents to the area.

    The resulting 3km traffic-free route connects residents with local amenities including shops, schools, the train station and park and ride.

    Sustrans’ engineering team project managed the installation a ramp link to Gilmerton Road, similar to the ramp at Old Dalkieth Road, alongside artworks at two locations.

    It has also raised the profile of some of the fantastic commuter routes to Edinburgh City Centre that residents can now take advantage of.

    The creation of the Loanhead Path Extension, was funded by Scottish Government through Sustrans National Cycle Network Development Programme.

    Artworks

    Artwork on Sustrans Gilmerton and Shawfair route, Midlothian ©2019, Sustrans Scotland
    Artwork on a new traffic-free cycling and walking route connecting the Gilmerton and Shawfair communies. ©2019, Sustrans Scotland
    Gilmerton to Shawfair route artwork ©2019, Sustrans Scotland
    Artwork on a new traffic-free cycling and walking route connecting the Gilmerton and Shawfair communities in Midlothian. ©2019, Sustrans Scotland
    Gilmerton to Shawfair route artwork ©2019, Sustrans Scotland
    Artwork on a new traffic-free cycling and walking route connecting the Gilmerton and Shawfair communities in Midlothian. ©2019, Sustrans Scotland
    Artwork unveiling, Gilmerton to Shawfair route, Midlothian ©2019, Sustrans Scotland
    Unveiling of new artwork ©2019, Sustrans Scotland

    As part of the development of the path, two locations were selected for significant artworks by artists Susheila Jamieson and James Gordon and Andrea Geile.

    The artists were selected based on their experience in public sculptures, their skills in involving members of the public with their projects and their fantastic initial ideas for what to create for the sites.

    The resulting artworks have helped to increase the attractiveness of the route whilst creating distinctive focal points for path users.

    STEM engagement sessions

    Sustrans STEM Bike ride, Loanhead path Midlothian, ©2018, Sustrans Scotland
    Sustrans Scotland I Bike and engineering teams worked together to deliver STEM curriculum-based lessons to Midlothian school pupils . ©2018, Sustrans Scotland
    Sustrans Scotland STEM bike ride Midlothian ©2018, Sustrans Scotland
    ©2018, Sustrans Scotland

    Working in partnership with Sustrans Scotland’s I Bike team in Midlothian, Sustrans’ engineering and schools team worked with Danderhall Primary School in Midlothian, to deliver STEM curriculum-based lessons for local school pupils on the route.

    Sustrans’ engineering team provided learning on some of the engineering and maths required to help build the path and Sustrans Ecologist taught pupils about the range of wildlife and biodiversity on the route.­­

    Categories
    Engineering team

    Marie-Claire Nyinawumuntu

    National Cycle Network Route 1 between Dundee and Arbroath, August 2019
    National Cycle Network Route 1 between Dundee and Arbroath, August 2019

    As a Sustrans Senior Engineer, Marie-Claire delivers new routes on National Cycle Network and improves and maintains existing infrastructures in other road networks.

    Her role gives her the chance to empower and encourage people to travel actively and feel safe while doing so. Prior to Sustrans, Marie-Claire worked with Technical Academy Scotland as a Qualifications Advisor where she developed a Road Inspectors Training in Scotland, a training endorsed by Institute of Highways Engineers (IHE).

    Prior to that she has worked for 9 years on South West Scottish Trunk Road Network, West Lothian Council and Kigali City Council in Rwanda where she is originally from.

    View Marie-Claire’s work