Walkability contributes to the overall liveability and functionality of urban spaces and the cities, towns, or neighbourhoods we live in. In addition, improving walkability encourages increased pedestrian activity, resulting in a range of health and environmental benefits.
Sense of community
Being part of a walkable city or suburb can improve the sense of community. You can get to know your local area better and are more likely to meet others in your community while walking. People living in walkable cities and towns generally perceive their areas as safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.
Enjoyment
The ability to access local amenities on foot can mean greater freedom, as you can get to most places on your own accord. It is often more enjoyable, as you can pass local services, shops, and landmarks. We tend to notice our surroundings whilst on foot much more than when we speed by in a car, bus or train.
Environmentally Friendly
Planning urban spaces for walkability not only makes walking easier, it supports healthy, low-carbon, creative, productive, and equitable cities and towns. It means that you may not need a car at all or can limit your car usage. There is also greater access to, and use of, public transport.
By 2050, 5% of urban mobility could be provided by foot instead of car, leading to approximately 3 gigatons of CO2 greenhouse gas emission reduction.
From Australian Government City Renewal Authority Jan 2025
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