The event showed what can be possible if streets are reclaimed for use by people and to challenge assumptions that roads are mainly the preserve of motorised traffic. One particular activity saw fitness enthusiasts perform yoga over Tower Bridge.

At a seminar on Thursday to launch the festivities, the capital’s walking and cycling commissioner explained the reasons for London getting involved in the global event, from a floor high up inside the City’s newest – and as yet unfinished – skyscraper, 22 Bishopsgate.

“In London we have to reduce the dominance of cars on our roads, congestion and poor air quality and tackle the inactivity crisis and social inequality,” commissioner Will Norman said.

Sunday’s event was about “giving Londoners the opportunity to see their city and streets from a different perspective”, he added, pointing out that the vast majority of London’s public space is occupied by streets. “We want to reimagine it with fewer cars.”

Will Norman explained that he hoped World Car Free Day would generate debate and discussion around how streets are used and give Londoners who usually drive “pause for thought” about their actions. He was particularly enthused about the creation of around 340 ‘play streets’ for the day across 24 London boroughs, encouraging people to come together and socialise in the communal spaces outside their homes that are usually occupied by vehicles.

During a panel session at the seminar, Edinburgh’s city centre transformation project director Daisy Narayanan – on secondment from Sustrans – spoke about the city’s Open Streets initiative to close certain routes to traffic in the Old Town on several days for the benefit of those on foot. She said the events provide an opportunity to better appreciate the surrounding buildings and allow children to play freely.

Delegates at the event also heard that when 22 Bishopsgate is occupied by businesses, deliveries to the 278m tall building will be consolidated. This should reduce the number of vehicles dropping off goods from an expected 600 to 60 and arrivals are set to be scheduled outside of the busiest pedestrian times. When open, the basement will include space for 1700 bicycles.

It was explained that a facial recognition system is to be installed at the entrance to the skyscraper, to allow cyclists entering the building to gain access without having to get out of their saddles. The system could also benefit runners, it was said, allowing them inside without having to break their stride.

(Photograph: oatsy40 and licenced for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence)