Zaha Hadid Architects has proposed new urban paths to make London fully walkable city, as part of a research initiative and exhibition to create a full-scale network of pedestrian routes across the capital.

Presented as a comprehensive analyses, research and strategies in "Walkable London" exhibition, ZHA's detailed 182-page report shows that the studio sets a tangible strategy for a full-scale new pedestrian routes which may be applied the best option for every street, as well as proposing new transport strategy as part of London's infrastructure. 

ZHA's report also presents current housing models and develops alternative housing strategies for implementation to promote health, well-being and walkability. 

Regents street

"Pedestrianising just a few streets has a limited impact on improving traffic congestion, pollution, safety and public health. To make walking part of our daily routine, London needs an integrated  pedestrian network as part of the city’s transport infrastructure," said ZHA.

"The UK capital has some great examples of pedestrianisation revitalising individual districts. Walkable London presents tangible strategies to connect these disparate pedestrianised zones."

"London’s Trafalgar Square experienced a 300% increase in visitors after the pedestrianisation of its North Terrace. Temporary Sunday closures to traffic on Regent Street results in a 57% increase in footfall. Globally, commercial activity increases by an average of 30% following the pedestrianisation of a street or district," added the studio.

Upper street

ZHA also presented some statistics regarding walking activities and stressedd that "on average, Londoners spent more than 100 hours per year stuck in traffic, costing the city’s economy £6.2bn (£1,911 per person) annually, while over 90% of air pollution in cities is caused by vehicle emissions."

"Walking just 20 minutes a day lowers the risk of heart disease, the major cause of premature death in the UK, by 30%. More than 40% of Londoners do not achieve the recommended 150 minutes of activity a week, contributing to the costs of illnesses derived from physical inactivity estimated at £12.6 per annum (8.3% of the UK’s national health spending)," explained the studio.

Proposed London Network by ZHA

Proposed detailed London Network by ZHA

Video by ZHA

"Increasing the density of the city’s residential neighbourhoods, through adaptive reuse and retrofit as well as the infill of disused lots, may not appear to be part of the city’s transport strategy, yet it addresses key issues of housing, transportation and community development."

"Developing London’s pedestrian-friendly environment will involve a wide variety of transformations—there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Careful analysis, engagement and support is required to develop the best solutions for each community," added the studio.

Walkable London exhibition can be visited at the Building Centre in London until February 26, 2018. 

Top image: Oxford street

All images courtesy of ZHA

> via ZHA/Walkable London