Monday, April 6 2009
Transport planner JMP has developed an interactive scoring tool for the identification and prioritisation of 20mph zones on behalf of Gateshead Council.
Gateshead Speed Management Plan outlined a road hierarchy where residential areas, local centres and near schools would usually be designated as 20mph zones. The mass implementation of 20mph zones is obviously cost prohibitive and therefore needs be progressed incrementally. The Council was, however, keen to develop a long-term strategy allowing for a consistent and transparent approach to the introduction of 20mph zones.
The tool includes an interactive automated scoring tool and GIS mapping system. This allows council employees to identify the relevant information needed to quickly and efficiently operate the scoring tool and provides an up-to-date way to analyse information using a visual approach.
A wide range of criteria have been considered, including national and local policy, road safety, sustainable travel, land-use characteristics and socio-economic conditions.
The tool will be used in the short term to develop a programme of 20mph zones to be implemented over the next few years. The tool can be easily updated allowing for its continuing use in the future.