C3. 2: Creat in g in clu si ve st re e t s fo r wa l ki n g an d cycl i n g Case Study - Superblocks, Barcelona
Context The previous SPD provided guidance around street designed underpinned by Transport for London’s Healthy Streets principles, however it did not provide a design code which would significantly address traffic dominance on residential streets.
The authors also recently conducted a site visit to Example, Barcelona where the Superblock model is being trialled. This is an approach to street layout which reduces non-local rat running in residential neighbourhoods by forcing drivers in the wider network to use the main arterial roads which can accommodate higher levels of traffic.
Desired Outcome
Superblocks, Barcelona -Desired objectives
Quiet, traffic free residential streets which preventing rat running traffic with the installation of modal filters and 5mph homezones. Restricting vehicle movement to main roads ensures that residential streets are safe for people of all ages to move, socialise and play. Residential blocks will be car free, apart from disabled drivers The cultural venue will be car free. Visitors must take public transport or take active modes to travel there.
Formal tools Informal tools Policy Tools Control CABE Openspace Guidance This proposes development of a detailed design code informed by Sustrans Design • SPD Joint local authority development plan Manual and the Barcelona Superblock model. Case study: Federation Square
This strategy creates an opportunity to greatly increase the amount of public space in a scheme. Considering 80% of public space in London is a street, there is huge potential to reclaim some of this space, making streets safer for people to interact in. It also imroves air quality and addresses sound pollution.
Superblocks, Barcelona -Tools used A design code and urban design framework was developed by the city council which was inspired by the woonerfs of Rotterdam. This design code was then implemented in 9 locations across the city.
Developers will be expected to produce a masterplan with a planning application which incorporates these design principles.
Formal tools Control • Planning consent subject to appropriate masterplan
Informal tools Sustrans Design manual (2014) Case study: Superblocks, Barcelona 33
