Transform has today published new research, in collaboration with Edinburgh Napier University, highlighting the case for on-street trials of new zebra-crossing design inspired by continental Europe.
The non-technical summary of the study ‘Continental Connections’ reports that a limited frequency of crossing points for Scottish pedestrians makes walking journeys longer, inconvenient and potentially unsafe.
In light of limited local authority budgets, the study proposes an alternative and more affordable crossing design which does not require an electricity supply.
The study finds that these new crossings could be suitable for 20mph zones in Scotland, alongside other traffic-calming measures.
Read the non-technical summary or full report here:
Next steps? To fully understand whether continental-style zebra crossings are a good option for Scotland, the report recommends real-life, on-road trials on public roads should take place, as has been done in Manchester, Cardiff and the Republic of Ireland.
To do this, the Scottish Government should work with local authorities to put in place the legal framework to allow trials to take place safely on Scottish roads.
