http://www.sustrans.org.uk/assets/files/AT/APTTO/Routes_to_play.pdf
Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity, has published guidance on practical steps local authorities can take to improve children and young people’s ability to access play spaces independently through walking and cycling, both within the Government’s play capital programme and in the general provision of play space. The document contains nine case studies and a list of further reading. The guidance focuses on seven key areas:
- The need for co-ordinated strategic planning between council departments;
- Involving children and young people in creating routes to help ensure their views and needs are taken into account;
- Improving the walking and cycling infrastructure on route to play spaces, such as crossings, dropped kerbs, lighting and signage;
- Promoting and encouraging cycling in open spaces used for play, by increasing cycle parking, reviewing cycling restrictions and holding cycling-related events;
- Reducing traffic speeds near play areas and other places where children are likely to play by creating 20mph zones around play spaces and residential areas. 20mph zones should be the norm for residential streets and for roads children cross to access play areas;
- Develop “playable routes” along traffic-free paths, especially those leading to play areas; and
- Creating local maps and information to help inform children and young people of the play and recreational opportunities in their areas and how they might reach them on foot and by bike.
