irc wrote:Samuel D wrote:Ban cars and it can become a pleasant, social space, quiet enough to have conversation, safe enough for young children to be let off the leash, and pleasant enough to attract all the desirable amenities that make a city worth visiting: bars and cafés, restaurants, art galleries, independent shops, theatres, libraries, museums, and all the other civic institutions. Plus, importantly, homes..
You have nearly described central Glasgow. Long stretches of pedestrianised streets which are now the prime shopping areas. Bus gates, one way streets, and bus/taxi/cycle only streets mean the city centre has few through routes for cars. Even as a car owner I'll often cycle into Glasgow or take the train.
Of course all this pedestrainisation is only possible because in the 1970s the M8 inner city motorway was planned and built taking traffic away from the city centre streets which previously were the through routes.
As far as shopping goes Glasgow city centre has outer area retail park challengers but the experience is not in the same class as wandering along Sauchiehall St, Buchanan St, or Argyle St on a sunny day with the mix of chain stores, independents, old pubs, buskers, and so on. The city centre also has a lot of full time residents these days compared to 30 years ago.
As far as air pollution goes the worst street in Glasgow is Hope Street. At the point it is measured the traffic is mostly taxis and buses. Banning cars won't change that. Bus regulation to prevent private bus operator running every service 3/4 empty through the city centre would be needed.
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Positive thread alert, we love Glasgae!
What are the 'handrails' fitted to the double-deckers upstairs outside at the front?
