Reasons to Pedestrianise Urban Centres: Impact Analysis on Mobility Habits, Liveability and Economic Activities

Mari Luz Brownrigg-Gleeson (), Andres Monzon and Adriana Cortez
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Mari Luz Brownrigg-Gleeson: Transport Research Centre-TRANSyT, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Andres Monzon: Transport Research Centre-TRANSyT, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Adriana Cortez: Higher Polytechnic School, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 23, 1-25

Abstract: Pedestrianisation entails the full removal of motorised vehicles. It promotes walking and active means of transport and has a wide range of benefits in terms of health, the environment, mobility and the economy. However, it often faces widespread opposition. This results in a lack of political will and, to a lesser degree, in temporary pedestrianisations, which can be reverted. We consider that infrastructural change and long-term pedestrianisation are key for long-lasting benefits and more resilient and sustainable cities. To explore and assess this, a survey of pedestrians and semi-structured interviews with businesses were conducted in recently pedestrianised areas of Madrid, a large capital city. Data on satisfaction and changes in mobility, liveability and business were gathered. Over 755 citizens and 38 local businesses answered. The results show high levels of satisfaction (2/3) among citizens, while 1/2 businesses consider it positive for their commercial activity. Car use has fallen, active means of transport have been fostered and perceived attractiveness has increased, although some congestion has been noticed in nearby streets. This and the rest of the evidence presented in this paper can be used to back long-term restrictive policies in other dense and busy cities.

Keywords: pedestrianisation; car restriction; user survey; citizen acceptability; city centre liveability; impact on local business (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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