The idea of the "naked" street, that has been successful in the Netherlands, is being implemented on a 380m long stretch of the High Street in Camden. This means that all the street furniture such as street signs, bollards, bins, railings and most of the road markings will be removed. According to planners this will make motorists more aware of the pedestrians (upto 6,000 every hour at peak times) and make it safer.
The road will be single carriageway, with the pavement being widened. There will be no pedestrian crossing, with people free to cross wherever they wish, though pedestrians are advised to make eye contact with drivers to establish who has right of way.
However, the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association is "seeking an urgent meeting with the planners" after successfully arguing that blind or partially sighted people would be disadvantaged in Ashford, Kent where a similar scheme was due to go ahead. The council in Camden hopes that the group will be less opposed to their plans as a low kerb separating the pavement from the road has been included.
Full story - Times Online 27/11/09
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