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Issues
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- Existing shared surface at Milsom Street
This area was not highlighted as an issue those consulted.
The only issues mentioned were
- the junction with busy George Street that was difficult to cross
- the route along Bartlett Street was difficult due to poor surfaces and narrow footways.
- Proposed shared surface at Kingsmead Square/ Seven Dials areas
Vehicular traffic around Kingsmead Square at the moment is considered to be too fast for safe informal crossings, and vision lines are considered to be poor. Unless this issue is dealt with people will not have confidence in a shared space.
The motor traffic around the pedestrianised island of Kingsmead Square is feared to the extent that any proposed shared surface treatment in this area is mistrusted and unpopular.
There is no confidence that motor traffic will give way and the most entrenched fear is among the most vulnerable, visually impaired people, those with mobility impairments who cannot move quickly and those with autistic children.
The current cycle crossover into the area across the footway is confusing and disliked.
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Recommendations
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It is proposed that any public realm treatment of this area will need
- have very clear designated segregated safe zones for pedestrians
- vehicular and pedestrian areas delineated by use of kerbs, visually highlighted kerb lines and/or tactile warning paving.
- clear crossing points, preferably be controlled crossings.
It is recommended that motor traffic is controlled and restricted with very low volumes and speeds under 10mph before pedestrians, especially vulnerable pedestrians including mobility and visually impaired people and carers of autistic people will be confident in using the space freely as intended.