LANDSCAPING SERVICES
REBIRTH OF THE HOME ZONE
Apart from measures directly related to Covid 19 itself , it is now clear that the pandemic has triggered a fundamental rethink about other aspects of how we live and work . Many longer-term , wider issues considered important for some time , but left on the backburner , are now re-surfacing , with the pandemic acting as a catalyst accelerating action . These issues have major implications for the built environment – including paving , as the trade association Interpave explains . whole road space safely and on equal terms – although the motorist should feel like a ‘ guest ’ in the area . They are designed so that quality of life takes precedence over ease of traffic movement and they aim to promote neighbourliness and a sense of security . Other original aims of home zones , particularly relevant today , include encouragement of cycling and walking for health – so reducing congestion and pollution – inclusion of older residents within the community and improving ‘ Liveability ’.
There is a new drive for walking and cycling to reduce obesity , and also address pollution resulting from car travel . The issue of traffic ‘ rat runs ’ through residential areas , generated by sat nav , is also in the news . Home working and the growth of on-line shopping have also created debate about creating stronger neighbourhoods and the reinvention of the suburbs , as well as our city centres . Now is the time to revisit the home zone concept for new or existing housing .
QUALITY OF LIFE Home Zones are residential streets or other external spaces within residential neighbourhoods where people and vehicles share the
Detailed guidelines have been available for some time on all aspects of Home from various organisations – including Interpave ’ s 2005 Home Zone Paving guide ( available via www . paving . org . uk ). Home Zones need to be designed as vibrant public spaces to accommodate play , exercise and relaxation by residents including children , the elderly and disabled people .
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