Transforming how we move

Recent shifts in urban planning and public space utilisation highlight a transformative approach to health and city resilience. Cities worldwide have rapidly adapted to new social norms by modifying infrastructure and public areas that were traditionally resistant to change. This adaptability showcases the connection between health and urban planning, emphasising the potential for enhanced city living.

One of the significant urban adaptations has been the reduction in traffic, which not only alleviates environmental pollution but also promotes public well-being. Modern housing developments are increasingly incorporating spaces suitable for remote working, reflecting a move towards more flexible living arrangements. The challenge now is to ensure the permanence of these beneficial changes.

Transportation habits are also evolving, with cities encouraging more sustainable travel options. Simple measures like reallocating street space can dramatically alter travel behaviours, promoting cycling and walking while reducing reliance on vehicular transport. Such initiatives not only make cities safer by reducing pollution but also foster environments that support healthier lifestyles.

Urban Planning

In urban planning, there is a growing recognition of the need to repurpose public space more equitably. Traditionally, vast areas dedicated to parking are being reconsidered for more communal uses, encouraging shared vehicle use or transforming these spaces into areas for public recreation and safety, such as pedestrian zones that ensure sufficient space for safe movement.

Moreover, the integration of flexible work arrangements, such as remote working even for a single day per week, could have profound impacts on reducing urban air pollution and enhancing overall public health. However, it’s vital that these changes do not exacerbate existing social inequalities, ensuring that benefits are accessible across all community sectors.

Urban space is a complex interplay of political and economic factors, where the allocation and use of space can significantly impact community dynamics and health outcomes. Making health a central goal in urban planning decisions can lead to more cohesive communities, increased physical activity, and environments that support all ages and abilities, ultimately reducing the incidence of chronic diseases such as obesity, asthma, and heart disease.

As cities continue to evolve, there is a clear opportunity to redefine public spaces in ways that prioritise health and well-being, making urban areas not only more liveable but also more equitable.

Walking Bus

Belfast Healthy Cities worked in partnership with expert advisors to the Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG), for Architecture and the Built Environment for Northern Ireland; the Care Zone Project team; the Care Zone Community Champions; Youth Education health and advice (YEHA); and, primary schools to jointly develop and trial walking buses in the Care Zone area in north Belfast.

A walking bus is a group of children walking part or all of their journey to school supervised by teachers and/or parents. The start of the route is usually located less than one mile from the school and in a suitable alternative drop-off location for those that normally use the car to travel to school, as well as providing additional support to children who may be too young, or feel the walking environment is unsafe, to walk to school.

The aim of the Walking Bus Pilot was to:

• Increase walking;
• Reduce car dependency; and,
• Improve air quality and reduce congestion in local areas.

Click the documents below to find out more:

Walking Bus Pilot Report

Walking Bus Pilot: Case Study

Walking Bus FAQs