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.
