
The concept of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) has garnered significant attention in recent years, with aspirations and impacts evolving rapidly. ECF has analysed several of its LTN case studies where support was given from 2021 through to just recently in March 2024, to better understand how the views, aspirations, and real-world impacts of LTNs have shifted from the perspectives of the communities involved.
This blog post delves into these findings, providing insights into the dynamic nature of urban planning and community engagement.
Community Aspirations: Back in 2021, we found that community aspirations were initially centred around reducing through-traffic using modal filters. However, there was a considerable divide in opinions, with those that were concerned worried about the impacts of traffic rerouting and the potential for modal filters to create accessibility issues, particularly for disabled and elderly residents. In 2023 by contrast, we observed a broader spectrum of aspirations. Residents not only focused on traffic reduction but also emphasised the importance of public safety for pedestrians and cyclists, environmental cleanliness, and improved transport connectivity. This shift indicates a growing awareness and desire for comprehensive neighbourhood improvement, beyond just traffic management.
Approaching Solutions: Similarly, in the early stages of LTN implementation, the focus was once again largely on introducing physical barriers like modal filters. This approach, while effective in reducing traffic in certain areas, often led to the perception of there being unintended consequences in neighbouring streets. We see now that the strategies have become more diversified. For instance, recent feedback we have received indicated that there was a push for time-specific modal filters, enhanced public transport options, and active travel incentives. This demonstrates a shift towards more flexible, holistic solutions that consider the broader community impact.
Public Perception and Participation: In the past, we found that public perception was generally more polarised. Commonly, residents viewed LTNs sceptically, concerned about their effectiveness in traffic reduction and the potential for creating new issues like increased congestion on alternate routes. Fast forward to now, and although those concerns remain, we also see a more nuanced understanding. While concerns about traffic displacement and the impact on specific groups (like the self-employed or those with disabilities) are still voiced, there’s an increased acknowledgment of the potential benefits LTNs can bring. More recently, we’ve noticed a larger variation of suggestions for improvement, indicating more proactive community involvement.
Real-world Impacts: Over the years, the goal of improving safety, health, and air quality have remained consistent. However, the approach to achieving these goals has evolved. Initially, the focus was on reducing vehicles, whereas now there is a greater emphasis on enhancing public transport and active travel options, indicating a shift towards sustainable urban mobility.
The journey from 2021 to now in the realm of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods reveals a maturing understanding of what these initiatives can achieve. While challenges like traffic displacement and community resistance persist, there’s a clear trend towards more inclusive, holistic approaches that balance traffic reduction with broader quality of life improvements.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of urban living, the lessons from these case studies are invaluable in shaping future LTN strategies that are both effective and reflective of the community’s evolving aspirations.
Testimonial
“Partnering with Louise, Oliver, and the team from ECF really helped to lift our engagement objectives to the next level and have helped shape what is now considered to be Newham’s gold standard approach to informative, educational, and collaborative engagement for Active and sustainable transport initiatives.
ECF were pivotal at key stages over the 12 month project, in the early “fact finding” of our public perceptions surveys and later in creating a comprehensive engagement strategy; leading on a new and creative ways to ensure key messaging is communicated to the local community and stakeholders in the right places at the most convenient times, encouraging really rich, open, honest conversations with community members that gave us insight into their lived experiences.
Collaboration and community engagement are crucial when introducing schemes, especially in areas of public controversy where opinions may differ. The ECF team are highly skilled and knowledgeable in capturing this information, analysing, and disseminating feedback into robust and transparent reports for decision makers and for the general public alike. The team have true insight into the subject matter and immerse themselves into the project seamlessly and professionally.
I look forward to working with the team on our next phase of Newham’s active travel schemes, confident in the knowledge that we are safe in the hands of market leaders shaping and continually improving engagement for London complex transport challenges.
Craig Nicol
LUF Project Manager
Newham Council
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