As our urban population continues to grow throughout the UK, the need for well-designed, functional Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods is becoming increasingly vital. The convenience of city living comes at a cost – for our health, our planet, and even our sense of community. The sheer number of cars on our roads is one of the main contenders contributing to these issues, and Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods offer a simple yet effective solution to mitigating this.
With many urban communities being used as cut-through routes for commuters, congestion is dividing neighbourhoods, and the ramifications of car-filled streets are numerous – limited space for children to play, exposure to harmful fumes, and increased risks for cyclists and pedestrians. The overuse of cars and other motor vehicles are taking priority over natural habitats, and consequently biodiversity is diminishing, and air quality declining.
Across the UK, and notably in Greater London, the implementation of Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods is on the rise – with some promising, evidence-based outcomes. From fostering a stronger sense of community to meeting councils’ environmental objectives, Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods are transforming communities. By redirecting car traffic and prioritising sustainable transportation options, LTNs allow us to reimagine and redesign our cities as spaces for everyone to enjoy. Cars can be diverted to alternative routes, freeing up neighbourhoods to become havens of greenery and nature. This shift enhances the well-being of residents, prioritising the needs of local communities over the convenience of passing commuters.
At British Recycled Plastic, our products have been used by councils across the country to transform public areas into sustainable, communal spaces for all to enjoy. Our Marsden recycled plastic planters are durable and long-lasting, making them an eco-friendly option that aligns with net-zero aims. The planters are a sustainable and attractive alternative to bollards – stopping traffic in specific areas while promoting a more intentional approach to spending time outdoors.
Here Are Our Top 3 Reasons to Utilise Marsden Recycled Plastic Planters in Your Low-Traffic Neighbourhood:
Calm the Flow of Traffic with Flexibility and Ease:
There are numerous approaches to creating an Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods zone – from physical barriers to automatic number-plate recognition cameras. The flexible, modular, and highly durable nature of our Marsden recycled plastic planters make them an ideal option to create a sustainable space that can be adapted to suit the ever changing needs of the city. The planters can be strategically positioned to create clear boundaries and redirect traffic, whilst allowing space for cyclists and pedestrians to pass through safely. Creating an environment where walking and cycling is encouraged and able to be done safely can be transformative for local residents, and research shows that these healthier practices increase in LTN areas.
Encourage Biodiversity: Reintroduce Nature into the Urban Landscape:
The destruction of natural habitats is an unfortunate side effect of urbanisation, and this lack of greenery is leading to a decline in biodiversity within cities. Ecosystems cannot function without a wide range of plants, animals, and insects, and the consequences of this collapse can range from changes in the food chain to issues with vital functions such as water purification. We need to reverse this damage and work towards a more sustainable future before it’s too late, and encouraging biodiversity through natural green spaces is a step towards achieving this.
Our Marsden recycled plastic planters are an ideal option to use within Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods as a way to create pockets of nature where wildlife can thrive and pollinators are supported. The planters can also be used to grow fruit and veg, and to practice sustainable gardening such as composting organic waste and nurturing healthy soil – all of which further support local ecosystems.
Create a Stronger Sense of Community:
A key benefit to using Marsden planters within a Low-Traffic Neighbourhood is their accessible and communal nature. In projects such as Nottingham City Council’s Movable Feast Project, our flexible and modular planters have been used around the city centre to create biodiverse green spaces where residents can enjoy nature and spend time outdoors. Green spaces are essential for the well-being of residents, providing areas for relaxation, recreation, and socialisation. Planters placed in communal areas create intentional gathering spots, fostering a stronger sense of community and connection amongst neighbours. These spaces become focal points for community events and activities, adding a communal structure to an otherwise isolated urban neighbourhood.
Community gardens also serve as outdoor classrooms, where individuals of all ages can learn about ecology, conservation, and sustainable agriculture. By fostering a connection to nature and the environment, community gardening instils a sense of responsibility towards protecting local biodiversity, whilst also introducing people to the health benefits associated with growing organic produce.
Incredible Edible is a community initiative based in our neighbouring town Todmorden, where fruit, vegetables, and herbs are grown in public spaces and are available for the whole community to enjoy. The planters also serve as an excuse to get outdoors and spend time with others, whilst contributing to a shared project and experiencing the joy of working together towards a common goal.
Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods are about much more than simply redirecting traffic and reducing the number of cars on the road. The implementation of Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods is a step towards redefining the urban landscape and lifestyle by harnessing a community spirit that can transform lives. By creating opportunities for nature to thrive, we can move towards living in healthier environments that are better for people, whilst protecting wildlife and working towards a more sustainable future for the planet.
Our modular range of Marsden recycled plastic planters come with robust 100mm x 100mm skids, allowing them to be moved with a fork lift or pallet truck, allowing the flexibility that is so essential in achieving an effective Low-Traffic Neighbourhood that best serves the needs of the community and can be adapted when necessary. As our planters are made from 100% recycled plastic, they are extremely durable and maintenance free – whilst offering a sustainable option that benefits the planet and will last for the long term.
While this potential green initiative can promise safer streets, cleaner air, and stronger communities, not all policymakers are on board. Engaging with local councils becomes paramount to understand the dynamics at play. By collaborating with the councils, we can grasp the concerns, offer insights, and tailor solutions that align with the unique fabric of each community. Let’s bridge the divide, fostering dialogue and a shared vision for sustainable urban living.
