SYDNEY, April 30 (Xinhua) -- Australia's iconic city of Sydney released a new study on Friday to further its vision of a city center that puts people first, with quality public spaces, new squares and more room for walking, cycling and relaxing.
The study was worked out by urban design firm Gehl based on international best practice and data tracking. It will help the city progress development of its new long-term strategic plan, Sustainable Sydney 2050.
"We're looking beyond traffic and basic infrastructure to create a city people want to live, visit, work and spend time in," said Lord Mayor of City of Sydney Clover Moore.
Since 2007, a couple of transformation and development have taken place across the city center. Up to 80,000 square meters of public space were to the city's footprint. Australia's oldest street, George Street became a pedestrian boulevard. A light rail corridor was built up with space for people to walk and sit.
"Cities need to be enjoyable to walk through and relax in. More quality public space, or outdoor living rooms, where people can meet and socialize, support a healthier, more equitable and economically viable city center," Moore said.
She added that the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of quality outdoor public space and active transport links, and a city with accessible and enjoyable public spaces is a great invitation for everyone across greater Sydney to come and explore.
The new study listed out several issues facing the city center, including cars dominating the streets, buses using too many roads, crowded footpaths and the need to complete the City's separated bike network, and put forward several recommendations that aimed to make the city not only people first but also environmental friendly.
"We must continue to champion cities for people as a true antidote to the many social, health and equity challenges we will continue to face," said urban designer Jan Gehl. Enditem