Walkable cities: UK towns leading safe street initiatives

Across the UK, pioneering towns and cities are changing their streets to prioritise pedestrian safety and create more liveable communities. From innovative traffic management to cutting-edge technology, these initiatives show how thoughtful urban design can reduce accidents and encourage walking as a natural choice for daily journeys.

1. Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) & Traffic Calming

Low Traffic Neighbourhoods use strategic road closures and modal filters to prevent through-traffic whilst maintaining access for residents. Government research shows these schemes can deliver safety benefits when properly implemented with community support. London boroughs like Hackney now have 70% LTN coverage, whilst Waltham Forest has achieved 49% coverage with measurable improvements in road safety. Traffic calming measures, including speed bumps, narrowed roads, and raised crossings, work alongside LTNs to create environments where pedestrians feel genuinely safe. These physical interventions force drivers to reduce speed and increase awareness of their surroundings, changing streets from car-dominated corridors into community spaces where children can play and neighbours can interact naturally.

2. 20 mph Zones & Reduced Speed Limits

The rollout of 20 mph limits is one of the most important pedestrian safety developments in recent years. Wales led the way by implementing a default 20 mph limit on restricted roads in September 2023, whilst numerous English councils have followed suit. Transport for Wales monitoring shows that reduced speed limits improve collision outcomes, with pedestrian fatality risk dropping from over 50% at 40 mph to less than 2% at 20 mph. London has seen substantial progress, with 16 boroughs now implementing 20 mph limits on 95% or more of their controlled roads. Transport for London has extended 20 mph limits to 215 kilometres of its network, including all roads within the Congestion Charge zone.

3. Smart & LED Enhanced Crossings

Technology is revolutionising pedestrian safety through intelligent crossing systems that adapt to real-time conditions. Pilot schemes across the UK are testing AI-powered sensors that detect approaching pedestrians and automatically extend crossing times or activate warning signals for drivers. These systems can identify vulnerable users, including elderly pedestrians or those with mobility aids, and adjust accordingly. Dynamic LED crossings that light up when pedestrians approach have shown particular promise in improving visibility during poor weather or low-light conditions. The technology also allows crossings to expand their width during busy periods, accommodating larger groups safely. While smart crossings reduce risk, anyone involved in an incident due to poor infrastructure can pursue pedestrian accident claims to seek compensation and hold authorities accountable for safety failures.

4. Shared Space & Pedestrian-Priority Schemes

Shared space design removes traditional kerbs and traffic signals, creating environments where pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles coexist at slower speeds with greater mutual awareness. London’s Exhibition Road successfully shows this approach, changing a busy thoroughfare into an elegant space that has both transport and social functions whilst improving safety outcomes. Brighton’s New Road project shows how shared space can revitalise commercial areas, with increased footfall benefiting local businesses. These schemes need careful consultation and accessibility adaptations to guarantee they work for all users, including those with visual or mobility impairments. Brake research indicates that well-designed shared spaces can reduce pedestrian casualties by creating environments where drivers naturally adopt more cautious behaviour. The success of shared space depends heavily on context and community engagement. When implemented thoughtfully with accessibility measures, these schemes create attractive environments that encourage walking whilst maintaining essential vehicle access.

The transformation of UK streets shows that pedestrian safety improvements often deliver broader community benefits, from reduced air pollution to stronger local economies, proving that investing in walkable infrastructure creates healthier, more vibrant places for everyone.