Part I: Urban Design Guidelines for All Subdivision and Development in the District

6 Roading and Pedestrian Access

6.4    Footpath Provision for Pedestrians and Cyclists

The provision of footpaths and cycleways enables and encourages people to walk and cycle around their neighbourhood. This encourages social interaction, casual contact between residents, and an active, social environment. Quality design for pedestrians and cyclists can help make non-vehicle local trips viable, reducing energy consumption, pollution and traffic congestion; this in turn can result in health benefits. Safe roads can also make it attractive for children to walk and cycle to school and to other facilities.

Developers should consider the following design elements:

• All roads should be designed to cater for cyclists and pedestrians, including children, the elderly and the disabled.
• Pedestrian crossing points should be provided at intersections. This may be as simple as providing a kerb cut down or a pram crossing.
• Separate cycle and pedestrian paths may be appropriate where an attractive longer route can be achieved without intersections – e.g. along an esplanade reserve.
• Footpaths take precedence over vehicle crossings – the gradient and material of the footpath should be uninterrupted.
• The width of footpath and cycleway links between roads should be wide enough to provide clear visibility from both ends and provide a safe area for users. Trees should be planted strategically so they do not block light and visibility as they grow.