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The COVID-19 pandemic is continuing to affect our everyday lives but the long term outcome may see a reimagining of our city spaces, giving more emphasis to facilities for walkers and cyclists.
The Department for Infrastructure have revealed that since lockdown began 23 March, on average, there has been a reduction in traffic flows of between 60 and 70% compared to this period in previous years, Minister Mallon has urged the public to keep moving in this direction and they just might have more appetite for this now that we all have seen what Newry looks like minus the regular traffic!
Infrastructure Minister, Nichola Mallon feels that the current situation has opened our eyes to the need for changes in how we use our spaces “While we must continue to do all that we can to protect our communities from Covid-19, we must also keep a watchful eye on the future. As Minister for Infrastructure, I recognise how difficult this lockdown is but I also think it’s shone a light on the need to do things differently. We can’t just go back to the way things were, we need to move forward and we need to do things better. While rightly we must remain focused on the fightback at present, I am also planning for the future.
“I am committed to working towards reimagining and reshaping our spaces to accommodate cycling, walking and active travel as part of an ambitious Executive recovery plan. Building a better future that delivers more for our citizens, socially and economically, delivering cleaner, greener and healthier communities.
“We all have a personal responsibility right now, and I have a responsibility to plan for the next steps. I want to give that reassurance and to acknowledge the significant effort by citizens across Northern Ireland and my simple message is thank you – let’s keep going. We’re all in this together.”
Consider New Initiatives
Speaking last week of his concern that quieter roads could lead to faster driving and the potential of tragic accidents MLA Cathal Boylan had also asked the minister to consider new intitatives “Some measures proposed to mitigate this risk include a temporary reduction of the speed limit as well as public awareness campaigns.
“Meanwhile, in other countries, extra bike lanes have been put in place to allow increased space and safety for cyclists making essential journeys.
“Sinn Féin have asked the Infrastructure Minister to consider such initiatives as a way to improve road safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians at this time."
