‘Walkability’ describes the extent to which the built environment is walking-friendly. It is a useful way to assess the characteristics of an area or a route, and considers accessibility in terms of proximity to destinations. There is no agreed definition of walkability, however, the following is considered a broad definition:
‘Walkability is the extent to which the built environment supports and encourages walking by providing for pedestrian comfort and safety, connecting people with varied destinations within a reasonable amount of time and effort, and offering visual interest in journeys throughout the network.[1]
In a walkable community, walking is considered a normal mode choice that connects people with their destinations and other modes of travel… A highly walkable environment invites people of any age, gender or degree of mobility to access their city independently and with enjoyment.’ (SUTP, 2018).[2]
If Mum and Dad think that it's safe enough, I can go to the park by myself or to the dairy, but if there are busy streets and no safe places to cross the road we usually take the car. |
The walkability of a place is influenced by its urban form and whether it meets seven pedestrian network characteristics. There are a range of outcomes that influence whether walking is a viable and easy mode choice for many daily travel needs.
PNG: Pedestrian network characteristics
PNG: Planning processes: Outcomes to make walking an easy choice
[1] Forsyth, Ann. (2015). What is a Walkable Place? The walkability debate in urban design. Urban Design International 20, no 4: 274-292
[2] Sustainable Urban Transport Project. (2018). iNUA #8: Meeting the Needs of People – Walking(external link)
