About the event

Join us for an evening of debate and discussion to consider the benefits and issues behind people prioritisation in street design, what problems could arise if careful attention is not given to the design of such spaces and whether people prioritisation can be the answer to providing the most inclusive environment for all.

Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.

Who is it for?

Young professionals interested in street design and the issues that can arise when seeking to create inclusive spaces.

Background information

Edinburgh City Centre Transformation is an ambitious plan for a vibrant and people-focused capital city centre which seeks to improve community, economic and cultural life. Within this plan, there is a commitment to create a walkable city centre with a pedestrian priority zone.

Pedestrian priority and inclusive spaces are at the forefront of street design, however their benefits and drawbacks have also been widely discussed, with shared space most recently in the spotlight.

Whilst people prioritised streets can share some features of shared spaces; the phrasing suggests a change in focus and a move to a design that will be fully inclusive and accessible.

However, there is still a question over whether ‘people prioritised streets’ can be truly successful in practice. Is it possible for pedestrians to share space successfully with other road users, including vehicles and cyclists, or will ‘prioritisation’ need to move away from this concept?

Hear from a variety of speakers debate the the benefits and issues behind people prioritisation.

Speakers

• Andrew Smith, Senior Planning Officer, City of Edinburgh Council
• Dr Caroline Brown, Lecturer, Heriott Watt University
• David Hunter, Mobility and Access Committee for Scotland (MACS)
• Robert Weetman, Technical Coordinator, Living Streets Scotland