London pavements not wide enough for social distancing

Two thirds of pavements in London are not wide enough for people to observe the government’s advice to stay two metres apart.

Looking at data for every street in Greater London, the UCL researchers found that only 36 per cent had pavements that were at least three metres wide – judged to be the minimum required for people to be able to keep their distance.

Of all London boroughs, the City of London had the highest percentage (51 per cent) of streets with non-road spaces (e.g. pavements or grass verges) that totalled six metres across, while Hammersmith and Fulham (26 per cent), Wandsworth (27 per cent), Richmond upon Thames, Newham and Haringey (all 28 per cent) had the lowest percentages.

Several global cities have adapted to the current low levels of traffic by creating more space for walking and cycling. Berlin, Bogota and Mexico City have created cycle lanes and Oakland and Vienna are closing streets to cars.

Ashley Dhanani, from The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, said: “Most streets in London have pavements which are just over two metres wide – this is not enough room for people to pass each other and leave two metres’ distance between them, especially with obstacles such as bins, trees and lampposts. While some may opt to walk in the road, this is not possible for people with pushchairs or with mobility impairments.

“This research shows there is an urgent need to reallocate street space in London so everyone can use streets safely. A lack of space for walking and cycling is also a long-term problem. Using data is vital to make sure action is targeted in an effective and fair way, focusing on areas with the greatest need for space.”