Governance of walkability presents an interesting mix of general consensus (we need more of it), perceived challenge (how to navigate car-centric transport planning systems?), and wicked problems (will improving it trigger gentrification?). Amidst a lack of research on decision-making processes, this research seeks to contribute insights from six interventions that improved walkability and reduced inequities of access.
The results show that the motivations, enablers, and challenges associated with improved walking environments are strongly influenced by broader dimensions of economy, car-centrism, and politics. These are examined in the light of previous evidence and contextualised through analysis of policy documents. Recommendations for a fairer and stronger governance of walkability and recommendations for future research are then suggested.
The findings are important given the need to improve conditions for walking, the dearth of evidence on decision-making related to walkability in general and pedestrian inequalities in particular, and indications that walkability improvements could unintendedly increase inequalities through “green gentrification”. A policy brief stemming from the project can be found here.
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