How we fix Preston Village
This is a positive campaign so below are a set of plausible and with the right funding, realistic, proposals that Brighton & Hove council can employ in order to address the challenges set out.
Solution: Install Rain Gardens in Preston Village between the road and the shops to prevent flooding.
Rain Gardens also filter pollution and separate pedestrians from fast moving traffic.
Solution: Build pavements over Middle, North & Lauriston rd. Give Pedestrians Priority.
Continuous pavements make walking safer and more enjoyable. Street Trees add texture to an urban space.
Before
After (Pedestrians have priority: the pavement is raised and continues over the road )
Solution: Add Parking and Loading bays in front of the shops.
Parked cars organically reduce traffic speeds, create a barrier between pedestrians & traffic + allow easy access to small local businesses.
Solution: Install ‘Welcome to Preston Village’ signs & signposts to remind motorists to drive carefully.
Because everyone needs a reminder to slow down sometimes.
Solution: Install a segregated cycle lane in front of the shops.
Cycle lanes keep cyclists safe but also improve the walkability by distancing pedestrians from traffic. Also more cycling = less noise and air pollution.
Image: TFL 2021
Solution: Plant some trees
Research shows that street Trees actually reduce vehicle speeds and have traffic calming effects. They are also beautiful and create shade and habitat.
Planting disease resistant Elms trees could bolster Brightons historic Elm collection around Preston Park and replace those lost to Elm disease.
