Empowering Young Explorers: The Transformative Impact of Active Travel on Children

A crucial aspect often overlooked in the planning sector is the impact of urban design on children. Enrique Peñalosa, the former Mayor of Bogotá, once insightfully remarked, “Children are an indicator species—if it works for children, it works for everyone”. This perspective aligns closely with the World Health Organisation’s research on the Social Determinants of Health, which emphasises the profound influence of the built environment, and early childhood experiences on people’s health and wellbeing.

A key element in fostering healthy, active, and independent children is mobility. When children feel safe from traffic and can easily navigate their neighbourhoods, they gain not only a sense of independence but also the opportunity for outdoor play right on their doorsteps. Research continually underscores the significance of mobility and transport in influencing children’s physical activity levels.

One effective strategy for enhancing children’s mobility is through the implementation of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs). By reducing the prevalence and dominance of cars in residential areas, LTNs offer safer, more accessible environments for children to explore and play.

ECF supported the London Borough of Newham on the draft proposal for an LTN in the West Ham Park Area. A central feature of this proposal is the introduction of a ‘modal filter’ on a strategic school street. This filter strategically links a large park with a local school, effectively forming a safe corridor that not only encourages active travel among school children but also significantly enhances opportunities for outdoor play and social interaction.

Implementing LTNs and designing child-friendly urban spaces is not just beneficial for the present but also serves as a wise investment in our future. Such designs are future-proofing projects, catering not only to current residents but also nurturing and supporting future generations. By fostering a sense of community, parents and adults are finding common ground and discovering shared interests, thus strengthening intergenerational neighbourhood bonds.

In conclusion, by viewing urban planning through the lens of child-friendliness, cities can develop environments that promote the health, wellbeing, and independence of their youngest inhabitants. Such an approach, as Peñalosa suggests, ultimately creates spaces that are beneficial for all, heralding a new era of inclusive and sustainable urban design.

To discover how ECF can elevate your project’s engagement strategy, reach out to us at info@engagecf.co.uk for expert guidance and support.