Sense and Nonsense About Shared Space
For an objective view of a popular planning concept
Shared Space is an European Union (EU)-wide design philosophy for inner-city shopping and high streets which is, however, not new and has been fully incorporated in German and Dutch regulations for some time now. Implementation of Shared Space projects have already had its effect on the city planning of sensitive street and open spaces. The measures are based on mutual agreement among motorists, cyclists and pedestrians concerning the widest possible elimination of traffic controls, light signals and signing.
Investigating case-study areas reveals that improved traffic safety might generally be achieved. At the same time, conflicts have also arisen, revealing that there are requirements and limits on the range of applications. This article will explore these issues in detail.
