Assessing the Polarising Impacts of Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods: A Community Perspective from Birmingham, UK

Isabelle Whelan, Carlo Luiu and Francis D. Pope ()
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Isabelle Whelan: School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
Carlo Luiu: School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
Francis D. Pope: School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 12, 1-22

Abstract: Globally, the transport sector is a major contributor to air pollution. Currently, in the UK, vehicle emissions contribute significant amounts of nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) pollution in urban areas. Low-emission-zone policies have been used as an intervention to tackle air pollution, and in this context, the UK launched the Low-Traffic Neighbourhood scheme. This study investigates the impacts of the Low-Traffic Neighbourhood in Kings Heath, Birmingham, UK, to evaluate its impact in reducing air pollution and local community perspectives about the scheme and perceived impacts on health and well-being. This study employs a mixed-method approach comprising an air-quality-monitoring assessment and a survey questionnaire involving 210 residents. The findings reveal an increase in active travel and a reduction in air pollution levels in the years after the implementation of the scheme, although the area is still non-compliant with the 2021 WHO air quality guidelines. Nonetheless, the scheme has a polarising effect and created a division within the local community about the overall scheme acceptance and spatial distribution of the scheme’s benefits. This study underscores the importance of comprehensive baseline data, long-term community engagement, and integration with broader urban planning initiatives to enhance the success of future Low-Neighbourhood Traffic schemes.

Keywords: low-traffic neighbourhood; low-emission zones; modal filter; air pollution; active travel; motorised transport; non-motorised transport; polarisation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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