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Kensington Gardens Studio Walk Monitoring Summary Report for The Royal Parks 27 January 2012

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Page 1: Kensington Gardens Studio Walk - Home - The Royal Parks · GLOUCESTER ROAD 10 minutes walk from Kensington Gardens ST. GOVORS WELL DRI NKI G FOUNTTAI ... London W2 2UH T: 999 for

Kensington Gardens Studio WalkMonitoring Summary Report for The Royal Parks

27 January 2012

Page 2: Kensington Gardens Studio Walk - Home - The Royal Parks · GLOUCESTER ROAD 10 minutes walk from Kensington Gardens ST. GOVORS WELL DRI NKI G FOUNTTAI ... London W2 2UH T: 999 for

2

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

Atkins Job Number: 5097289 Document Reference: Kensington Gardens Studio Walk Monitoring Summary Report

Printing A3 Double Sided

Revision Purpose Description Originated Checked Reviewed Authorised Date

1 Draft report for client review GS AC RH 14.12.2011

2 Final report GS AH 27.01.2012

This document and its contents have been prepared and are intended solely for The Royal Parks’s information and use in relation to Kensington Gardens Studio Walk.

Atkins assumes no responsibility to any other party in respect of or arising out of or in connection with this document and/or its contents.

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327 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio WalkMonitoring Summary Report for The Royal Parks

27 January 2012

Table of Contents

Technical Report 5

Introduction 6

About Kensington Gardens 6

Summary of Findings 10

Evaluating Critical Success Factors 14

Conclusions 19

Appendix Observation Studies 21

Appendix Level of Service Assessment 27

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4

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

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530 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

1Technical Report

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6

Technical Report

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SCIENCE MUSEUM7 mins walk from Kensington Gardens

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM10 mins walk from Kensington Gardens

VICTORIA & ALBERT (V&A) MUSEUM9 mins walk from Kensington Gardens

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CENTRALROYAL PARKS

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www.royalparks.org.uk

LOCAL LANDMARKSKENSINGTON PALACE was first adapted as a stylish royal residence in 1698 for William III and Mary II. Visit now to marvel at the magnificent State Apartments, the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection, and dressesowned by Diana, Princess of Wales.Open daily: March to October 10am – 6pmNovember to February 10am – 5pmT: +44 (0)844 482 7777www.hrp.org.uk

THE ORANGERY designed for Queen Annein 1704, was once the setting for lavish court entertainment. Now it is a tranquil restaurant where you can enjoy leisurely lunches and afternoon teas.Open daily: March to October 10am – 6pmNovember to February 10am – 5pmT: +44 (0)844 482 7777www.hrp.org.uk

ROYAL COLLEGE OF ARYY TRR has a livelyprogramme of exhibitions featuring the work of its postgraduate students and lectures by leading figures from the worlds of art and design.Open daily:10am – 6pm Most exhibitions are free unless stated otherwise.T: +44 (0)20 7590 4444www.rca.ac.uk

THE ROYAL GARDEN HOTEL offers 396 beautifully appointed rooms, offeringstunning views of both Kensington Gardens and Kensington’s iconic high street. Why not visitone of our two restaurants and three bars for anything from a relaxing drink, quick snack, light lunch, afternoon tea or a superb dinner.T: +44 (0)20 7937 8000www.royalgardenhotel.co.uk

THE ROYAL LANCASTER HOTELWith Kensington Gardens & Hyde Park directly to the south and dramatic vistas eastto the City of London, guests all agree thepanoramic views are breathtaking. Travel iseasy with the Heathrow Express just minutesfrom the hotel, while Marble Arch and OxfordStreet, with their plethora of shops, are just aten-minute stroll away. This deluxe 4-star hotel is perfectly positioned in the very heart of thisvibrant metropolis.T: +44 (0)207 262 6737www.royallancaster.com

SERPENTINE GALLERY is one of London’s best-loved galleries for modern andcontemporary art. Its Exhibition, Architecture, Education and Public Programmes attractapproximately 750,000 visitors a year.Open daily: 10am – 6pm. Admission freeT: +44 (0)20 7402 6075www.serpentinegallery.org

MILES 1 2 3

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15 HYDE PARK CORNER16 GREEN PARK17 CHARING CROSS18 WESTMINSTER19 ST JAMES’S PARK20 VICTORIA21 HAMPTON22 TEDDINGTON23 HAMPTON WICK24 KINGSTON UPON THAMES25 HAMPTON COURT26 RICHMOND27 NORTH SHEEN28 MORTLAKE

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PARK MANAGEMENT

Tom Jarvis

The Old Police HouseHyde Park, London W2 2UH

T: +44 (0)20 7298 2000 F: +44 (0)20 7724 2826

E: [email protected]

METROPOLITAN POLICE

The Old Police HouseHyde Park, London W2 2UH

T: 999 for emergencies. T: +44 (0)20 7706 7272 for non-emergencies within the park. You can also report a crime online at www.online.met.police.co.uk

The park is open from 6am to dusk all year round. See notice boards or visit the web for further details.

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Register for Royal Parks updates www.royalparks.org.uk/registerkensington

Introduction

About Kensington Gardens

Kensington Gardens covers 111 hectares in central London,

offering popular visitor attractions such as Kensington

Palace, the Albert Memorial, the Diana Memorial Playground

and the Serpentine Gallery. The park is a popular amenity

for local residents, an important public green space and a

key attraction for tourists in London.

The Park is defi ned to the east by the Longwater and West

Carriage Drive, which separate it from Hyde Park.

There are currently three permanent routes for cyclists in

Kensington Gardens (see Figure 1 on this page and Figure 2

on page 7):

• The Broad Walk – the main north-south route connecting

Bayswater Road and Kensington Road, running east-west

on the southern boundary of the Park.

• Mount Walk – a popular east-west route, connecting The

Broad Walk with West Carriage Drive.

• Albert Approach Road – running from Queen’s Gate to

West Carriage Drive.

Studio Walk is the continuation of Mount Walk to Studio

Gate, the western entrance to the park.

Figure 1 Map of Kensington Gardens, showing Studio Walk and the location of London Cycle Hire Docking Stations

London Cycle Hire Docking Stations

STUDIO STUDIO

WALK WALK

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730 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

The Shared Use Trial

Studio Walk is a popular route in Kensington Gardens,

attracting a signifi cant number of tourists. It is situated at

the western end of the park connecting Mount Walk and

Kensington Palace Avenue and provides an alternative

east-west route to Bayswater Road. It is also one of few

paths running from the west of the park to the Broad Walk,

the key north-south route within the park. The location of

Studio Walk within the wider cycle network can be seen in

Figure 2 alongside.

The Royal Parks (TRP) launched a trial of a shared use

scheme on Studio Walk, Kensington Gardens. This started

on 2nd August 2010 and will end on 31st January 2012.

Funded by The Royal Parks in partnership with Transport for

London through the Cycling on Greenways scheme, the trial

aimed to encourage people to enjoy cycling in green spaces

and to test the suitability of Studio Walk as a permanent

cycling route.

Upon the opening of the path to cyclists, Atkins undertook

the fi rst stage of monitoring of the use of the shared path

by pedestrians and cyclists. A summary report issued in

December 20101 presented an analysis of fi ve critical success

factors, including a customer research survey, a shared use

study, and an interactions study, which were benchmarked

against fi ndings from comparable studies. The assessments

highlighted the success of the scheme, with all fi ve factors

falling within the agreed thresholds.

In September 2011, a second round of monitoring was

undertaken and confi rmed the success of the scheme. To

provide a direct comparison with previous results, park users

were observed and consulted using the same methods as

during the fi rst stage of monitoring.

Correspondence, including emails, letters and feedback

received at Considerate Cycling events, was collected

throughout the trial.

This report provides a summary of the two stages of

monitoring of the shared use over the trial period.

1 “Kensington Gardens Studio Walk Shared Use Trial Monitoring”,

Atkins, 7th December 2010Figure 2 The location of Studio Walk in the wider cycle network

BOND STREET

LANCASTER GATE

MARBLE ARCH

NOTTING HILL GATE

OX

QUEENSWAY

HIGH STREET KENSINGTON

BAYSWATER

PADDINGTON

GRE

HYDE PARK CORNER

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

VICTORUnderground

Signed for cyclists

Recommended by cyclists

Through parks for walking and cycling

Adjacent to busy roads.May be shared with pedestrians

Pedestrians only

Popular Cycling Routes

Kensington Gardens

The London Cycle Network (LCN)

Studio Walk

The Broad Walk

Mount Walk

Albert Approach Road

The London Cycle Hire scheme was introduced in July

2010 by Transport for London. Cycle hire bicycles can be

found in station areas within and immediately surrounding

Kensington Gardens and are shown with a red dot on the

map in Figure 1 on page 6.

To highlight potential differences in fl ow levels and

behaviours, the analyses presented in this report

differentiate between those using hired bicycles and cyclists

using their own bicycles.

It should be noted that at the time of the fi rst stage of

monitoring (September 2010) the London Cycle Hire scheme

was open to registered users only. In December 2010, the

use of London Cycle Hire bikes was extended to casual

non-members who could pay on a one-off basis with their

debit or credit cards. The level of activity and behaviours of

these users were observed as part of the second stage of

monitoring (September 2011).

The London Cycle Hire scheme

KENSINGTON GARDENS

HYDE PARK

GREEN PARK

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8

Technical Report

Monitoring objectives

To ensure that the scheme is supported by all users, Atkins

has undertaken objective evidence-based research into

the level of activity and behaviour of park users following

the same methodology in both stages of the monitoring.

This includes surveys to fully understand and investigate

attitudes, behaviour, interactions and comfort of users at

the outset of the scheme and throughout the trial period.

All surveys have made use of agreed best-practice guidelines

and techniques, including guidance from Transport for

London (TfL)1, the Department for Transport2 3 and research

conducted by Atkins for TfL’s Cycling Walking Accessibility

Greenways programme.

Two stages of monitoring were undertaken during the

Studio Walk Shared Use Trial period:

• Stage 1 in September 2010; and

• Stage 2 in September 2011.

During the fi rst stage of the monitoring, the aim was to

present an initial objective evidence-based review of user

behaviours on Studio Walk.

The second stage of monitoring was undertaken before the

end of the trial scheme in January 2012. This specifi cally

aimed at understanding changes in activity and behaviours

after a year in place, observing how users familiarised

themselves with the scheme and assessing the performance

of Studio Walk as a permanent shared use pedestrian and

cycle route.

For both monitoring stages, video surveys were undertaken

to capture user activity and behavioural trends during peak

periods of the week. Questionnaire surveys were used to

benchmark user views and evaluate them against critical

success factors in order to support the decision making

process for the future of Studio Walk.

1 Transport for London, London Cycling Design Standards. 2005

2 Department for Transport, Cycling in Pedestrian Areas. 2005

3 Department for Transport, Cycle Infrastructure Design. 2008

Critical success factors

The Royal Parks defi ned the following fi ve critical success

factors4 benchmarked on previous research, which have

been monitored during the trial period and presented in

“Evaluating Critical Success Factors” on page 14:

Criterion 1: No fewer than 95% of users surveyed during

perception studies must rate the overall quality of the park

‘good’ or ‘excellent’.

Criterion 2: The level of comfort for pedestrians along

Studio Walk must not fall below A or B during peak user

activity (measured using Platoon Level of Service, a robust

methodology developed from standard pedestrian Level of

Service assessments5 6).

Criterion 3: Based on video surveys along Studio Walk more

than 96% of cycle journeys must not involve neither minor

confl ict nor major confl ict.

Criterion 4: 75% of pedestrians surveyed during perception

studies should be satisfi ed, comfortable or very comfortable

with cycling on Studio Walk. The data collected will be

further analysed with information on vulnerable users

(classifi ed and registered disabled, elderly and people with

children under fi ve years of age.) If there is a high proportion

of this group who are uncomfortable this will be further

assessed. Dog walkers will also be considered.

Criterion 5: 94% of cyclists surveyed during perception

studies should be satisfi ed, comfortable or very comfortable

with cycling on Studio Walk.

As in previous monitoring studied conducted by Atkins

for The Royal Parks, to assess criteria 4 and 5, surveys

used the following fi ve categories: very uncomfortable,

uncomfortable, satisfi ed, comfortable, very comfortable.

4 The Royal Parks, The Regent’s Park Broad Walk Shared-Use Cycle Project Summer

Trial Report and Extended Trial Criteria. August 2008

5 Fruin, John J. Pedestrian Planning and Design. New York: Metropolitan Association

of Urban Designers and Environmental Planners Inc. 1971

6 Pushkarev, Boris, and Jeffrey M. Zupan. Urban Space for Pedestrians: a Report of

the Regional Plan Association. MIT Press: Cambridge, Mass. 1975

Figure 3 Studio Walk as seen looking west from The Broad Walk Figure 4 Shared path on The Broad Walk, Kensington Gardens

Figure 5 Open area outside Kensington Palace Entrance on Studio Walk

Figure 7 Studio Gate entrance to Kensington Gardens

Figure 6 Shared path on Mount Walk, Kensington Gardens

Figure 8 A no-cycling side path along Studio Walk

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930 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

About the observation studies

The analysis presented in this report is based on two stages

of observation studies conducted in September 2010

(Stage 1) and September 2011 (Stage 2). Our assessment

of activity, behaviour and the effect on how people use the

shared route on Studio Walk is based on video footage.

User perception surveys are based on questionnaire surveys

undertaken in the same time periods as the video surveys

but on different days, to ensure the presence of observers

on site did not interfere with the video data collection

and affect subsequent analyses, and to ensure that

representative information was collected.

The surveys locations considered during the study are shown

in Figure 9. Examples of camera views are shown in the

snapshots in Figure 10 to Figure 12.

A summary of the observation studies’ dates and

weather conditions are shown in Table 1. Activity levels

and behaviours recorded on site were not likely to be

signifi cantly affected by the slight variations in the weather

conditions recorded across the different survey days.

The video footage captured on site informed a series of

assessments, including:

• Pedestrian and cycle fl ow counts;

• Cycling speed surveys;

• Data collection of user demographics and group sizes;

and

• Pedestrian and cycle fl ows interaction study.

Flow counts were undertaken for 15 minutes every half

hour of video footage for the whole duration of the surveys.

This was used to understand fl ow levels at peak periods of

activity and identify the pedestrian and cycle peak hours.

The other surveys - as well as continuos fl ow counts - were

then undertaken for the peak hour of activity.

For additional information on how we conducted the

assessments presented in this report please see “Appendix”

on page 21.

Figure 9 Survey locations on Studio Walk

Studio Gate

Palace Entrance

Studio Walk East

Figure 10 Example of camera view at Studio Walk East

Figure 11 Example of camera view at the Palace Entrance

Figure 12 Example of camera view at Studio Gate

All survey locations

Video footage Questionnaires

Monitoring Stage 1 Monitoring Stage 2 Monitoring Stage 1 Monitoring Stage 2

Date: 9th, 15th Sept 2010 7th September 2011 10th September 2010 8th September 2011

Day: Thursday, Wednesday Wednesday Friday Thursday

Times: 07:00-10:00 and

16:00-19:00

07:00-10:00 and

16:00-19:00

07:00-10:00 and

16:00-19:00

07:00-10:00 and

16:00-19:00

Total gates: 3 sample locations same 3 locations same 3 locations same 3 locations

Weather: Cloudy on 9th,

mostly cloudy or

drizzly on 15th.

Fine or partly cloudy Fine or partly cloudy Partly cloudy/drizzly

Table 1 Summary of information on the observation studies

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10

Technical Report

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250

300

350

400

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100

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Studio Gate Stage 1 Studio Walk East Stage1

Studio Gate Stage 2 Studio Walk East Stage2

Pedestrians Cyclists

The activity is higher on the eastern end of Studio Walk by The Broad Walk

The activity on Studio Walk by Studio Gate is generally lower

than at the eastern end of Studio Walk near The Broad

Walk (Studio Walk East), as shown in the graph in Figure 15

below. This is most likely due to people using Studio Walk to

reach the side paths leading to High Street Kensington and

tourists walking between The Broad Walk and Kensington

Palace Entrance. It was considered that activity at Studio

Walk East was most typical of fl ow levels and behaviours

taking place in the Park. The analysis presented in this report

therefore refers to the data collected on Studio Walk East.

Introduction

This section provides a summary of the use of Studio Walk

by cyclists and pedestrians observed during the Shared Use

Trial monitoring surveys. This assessment informs the critical

success factors presented on pages 14 to 18.

Notes on the methodology

The method used for this study is known as the ‘stationary

gate method’ whereby all pedestrians and cyclists who

cross an imaginary line are counted during fi xed periods.

Directionality is recorded as appropriate.

At each stage, a count of park users was undertaken for

15 minutes every half hour using the footage recorded on

weekdays at two key locations, namely Studio Walk East

and Studio Gate. From this survey a time profi le for the day

was obtained, which defi ned the peak hour of activity.

Subsequently, a continuous count of pedestrians and cyclists

was undertaken at Studio Walk East for the peak hour of

activity. This was also used to collect demographic data of

park users, which also indicates the number of users with

dogs and those with children. Cyclists using London Cycle

Hire bicycles were counted separately from those using their

own bicycle.

Pedestrian and cycling activity

Pedestrian and cycle activity, users’ behaviours and

interactions on the shared route have been assessed during

the morning and afternoon peak periods on a weekday

(7:00-10:00 and 16:00-19:00 respectively).

Studio Walk is a well used shared path where the majority of people are on foot

Studio Walk is well used by both pedestrians and cyclists,

as shown in the graph in Figure 14. Pedestrians make up

the vast majority of park users, with an average of four

pedestrians for every cyclist recorded during the entire

monitoring study at Studio Walk East (84% in September

2010 and 76% in September 2011).

The periods of peak activity differ for pedestrians and cyclists

The peak hour for pedestrian fl ow is observed between

9:00 and 10:00, when approximately 400 pedestrians use

the shared path. The highest number of pedestrians in the

afternoon was recorded from 17:00 to 18:00 in 2010 and

16:00 to 17:00 in 2011 (Figure 14). This refl ects the touristic

and recreational uses of the park and Kensington Palace.

These pedestrian peak hours differ from those observed for

the cycle fl ow. For the purpose of this study, a decision was

made to consider the cyclist AM and PM peak hours as peak

hours of overall activity, as these are more likely to capture

the highest interaction between cyclists and pedestrians on

Studio Walk. As the cycle fl ow recorded in 2010 between

17:00 and 18:00 was comparable to that between 18:00

and 19:00, the peak hour of activity was identifi ed based on

the overall fl ow (pedestrian and cycle). This resulted in the

identifi cation of “peak hours” of activity considered in this

report, which are listed below:

• AM peak: between 8:00 and 9:00;

• PM peak (Stage 1): between 17:00 and 18:00;

• PM peak (Stage 2): between 18:00 and 19:00.

Pedestrian and cycle fl ows recorded during these peak hours

are shown in Table 2. Figure 13 Dog walker on Studio Walk

400

600

800

0

200

400

600

800

0

200

07:00 08:00 09:00 16:00 17:00 18:00

stage 2 Eastbound stage 2 Westbound

stage 1 Eastbound stage 1 Westbound

pedestrians

cyclists

AM PM

Peak hours

People per hour (PPH)

Monitoring

StageMode

Weekday

AM Peak

Hour

PM Peak

Hour

Stage 1

(Sept 2010)

Pedestrians 354 492

Cyclists (owned) 136 84

Cyclists (hired) 30 22

Stage 2

(Sept 2011)

Pedestrians 268 508

Cyclists (owned) 154 170

Cyclists (hired) 50 42

Table 2 Summary of activity at peak hours on the weekday

Summary of Findings

Studio Walk is a useful commuting route for cyclists

The graph in Figure 14 shows the direction of pedestrian

and cycle fl ows on Studio Walk. Pedestrian activity is equally

split between the two directions at all surveyed times. This

suggests a predominantly local and recreational use of the

path by those on foot.

The commuting nature of the route for cyclists is

highlighted by the directionality of the cycle fl ow, which is

predominantly eastbound towards Central London in the

morning and westbound in the evening (Figure 14).

Figure 14 Peak pedestrian and cycle activity on Studio Walk East

Figure 15 Comparison of users recorded on Studio Walk by Studio Gate

and on Studio Walk East between 8:00 and 9:00 on a weekday

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1130 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

14.0

0.0

2.0

4.0

Stage 1 AM Stage 2 AM Stage 1 PM Stage 2 PM

Own Hired

1% 1%

18%

8%

60%

10%

Adult PedestrianAdult Pedestrian

Child Pedestrian

Jogger

Adult CyclistAdult Cyclist

Child Cyclist

Adult Cyclist Walking with bike

Child cyclist walking with bike

Adult Cyclist Hire

Child Cyclist Hire

Rollerblader/ Skater

Mobility Impaired

6%3%

7%

5%

54%

25%

No of Individuals

No of groups of 2g p

No of groups of 3

No of groups of 4

No of groups between 4 and 10

No of groups >10

The number of cyclists has increased during the trial

Across the trial period, the net number of cyclists - as well as

their proportion among all park users - has increased during

both the AM and the PM peak hours. In September 2010,

166 cyclists were recorded between 8:00 and 9:00 (Table 2

on page 10), corresponding to 32% of users. The survey

conducted a year later showed 194 cyclists used the path at

the same peak hour, corresponding to 41% of all users.

Overall fi gures show an increase in both privately owned

and hired bicycles recorded on Studio Walk.

This fi nding - along with the commuting nature of cycling

on Studio Walk - suggests that the route has become a

key part of the cycling network for commuters into Central

London.

The London Cycle Hire Scheme is used by commuters and visitors

On average during the monitoring study, one out of fi ve

bikes recorded on Studio Walk were hired using the London

Cycle Hire scheme (Table 3).

The proportion of cycle hire users rose from 19% to 24% of

all cyclists. This is partly due to the opening of the London

Cycle Hire scheme to non-registered users in December

2010.

Table 3 Total number of London Cycle Hire cycles and privately owned

cycles recorded during the monitoring surveys

Cycling speed

Speed is a key indicator of cyclist behaviour. It can vary with

several factors including the physical characteristics and

design of a route, its strategic importance on a transport

network, as well as user activity and individual choice.

Notes on the methodology

Cycling speed surveys were undertaken at Studio Walk East

during the morning and the afternoon peak hours. Cycling

speed at this location was a perceived concern due to the

high level of pedestrian and cycling fl ows, as well as the

presence of a level change which could increase the speed

of cyclists going towards Studio Gate.

A sample of 120 cyclists were observed during the

monitoring study, equally split between the AM and the

PM peak periods on weekdays. Privately owned and hired

bicycles were assessed separately to provide a comparison of

speed between the two, shown in Figure 18 below.

Cyclists commute through the park at a considerate speed

Despite Studio Walk being a well used commuting route

through the Park, the speed of a representative sample of

cyclists is considerate and measured between 10 and 11

mph (Figure 18). These speeds are comparable with those

recorded in previous studies in other Royal Parks.

Average cycling speeds are similar in the morning and in the

afternoon.

Cyclists on hired bikes travel more slowly

On average, London Cycle Hire bicycles are slower then

privately owned bicycles, with 9.7 mph and 11.7 mph

respectively.

average speed

10.7 mph

Demographics

A summary of overall demographic information recorded

during the PM peak hours is shown in Figure 16 below.

Most park users are adults (60%) or children on foot (10%).

Joggers account for about 8% of all users. Other users types

such as adults pushing their bikes, skaters and rollerbladers

were also recorded in small numbers.

Most pedestrians walk alone (54%) or in pairs (25%), as

shown in Figure 17, although larger groups were observed

throughout the day during both monitoring stages, more

typically at times outside of commuting periods.

Stage 1 Stage 2 Total

Cycles (owned) 464 (81%) 674 (76%) 1138 (78%)

Cycles (hired) 106 (19%) 208 (24%) 314 (22%)

Figure 16 Summary of demographic information during PM peak hours

Figure 17 Group sizes during PM peak hours

Figure 18 London Cycle Hire Bicycles 2011

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12

Technical Report

Users behaviours

Understanding the behaviours of all park users is a key

element of the monitoring of the Studio Walk Shared Use

Trial. Surveys were conducted using video footage fi lmed

on a typical weekday during the PM peak hours, when the

path is shared by a number of user types, including walkers,

joggers, cyclists and people with dogs and/or children.

Cyclists on paths where cycling is not permitted

The map in Figure 19 shows cycle fl ows recorded on Studio

Walk and on the path immediately adjacent, where cycling

in not allowed. Some activity is observed, especially on the

diagonal path starting at the easternmost side of Studio

Walk, illustrated in Figure 22. A total of 6 cyclists in 2010

and 23 in 2011 were observed during the PM peak hour

using paths where cycling is not permitted (Figure 19). The

diagonal path by on The Broad Walk side of Studio Walk

shows a higher number of cyclists.

217 (106)

18 (2)213 (116)

210 (92)

3 (0)

0 (1)0 (1)

2 (2)

Figure 19 Direction split of cyclists at the junctions along Studio Walk during the PM peak hour (17:00 - 18:00 Stage 1; 18:00 - 19:00 Stage 2)

xx 2011 survey

(xx) 2010 survey

Along Studio Walk

Pedestrians use the whole length of Studio Walk, as well

as the side paths to the south-western gate towards High

Street Kensington. The wide space opposite Kensington

Palace Entrance was heavily used by tourists during the fi rst

stage of surveys, where people mostly stopped there to take

photographs opposite Kensington Palace.

At the time of the second stage of monitoring, the area was

temporarily fenced-off due to construction works, restricting

the path width to 7.4 m. People were observed reading

the messages on the fence, further restricting the width

available for cyclists and other pedestrians to pass (Figure

21).

The fence has since then been removed; pedestrians and

cyclists can use the total available space along Studio Walk

and opposite Kensington Palace Entrance.

At Studio Gate

A sign located on the guard railing just outside Studio Gate

indicates cyclists should dismount when exiting the Park.

The footage showed that cyclists generally slow down when

they approach the gate, probably due to the guard railing

(Figure 23), although only a few dismount from their bikes

(6% in 2010 and 4% in 2011 at PM peak hours).

It should be noted that there is no such sign on the other

side of the guard railing (Figure 20). The data suggests

that cyclists tend to slow down considerably while entering

Studio Gate. However, the presence of the guard railing

does create a pinchpoint for circulation of pedestrians and

cyclists. Some confl ict was observed in this area during both

stages of monitoring, as described in “Criterion 3: PASS” on

page 15 and shown in Table 5 on the same page.

Figure 20 Studio Gate as seen from Palace Avenue

Figure 21 Tourists standing by the fl owers and messages at Kensington

Palace Entrance (video still)

Figure 22 Cyclist using a side path off Studio Walk (video still)

Figure 23 Cyclist pushing his bike while entering Studio Gate (video still)

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1330 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

User perceptions

As part of the monitoring surveys for the Studio Walk

Shared-use Trial, park users were asked to complete

questionnaires on site by trained staff along Studio Walk.

The questionnaire surveys were undertaken on 10th

September 2010 and 8th September 2011, on different

days from the video surveys to ensure that the staff did

not infl uence observed behaviour. The weather on the

survey days was mild and partly cloudy on both years with

occasional drizzle in 2011.

We provided people the opportunity to either fi ll out the

questionnaire on site or take it home and post it back free

of charge. The choice of completing the questionnaire

on-line was provided in 2010 but only 4 responses were

received. A decision was therefore made to not provide this

option again in the 2011 surveys.

The great majority of responses were completed on site

(Table 4). There was a higher number of total survey returns

(242) in this second stage of monitoring than in the fi rst

stage in 2010, during which a total of 207 responses were

collected.

The surveys informed the evaluation of the Success Factors

(Criteria 1, 4 and 5) presented on page 14 and following

pages. The results of the questionnaires also showed that

about two thirds of pedestrians are aware of the share use trial scheme (Figure 24). The awareness is even

higher amongst cyclists (82%).

For more information on the questionnaire surveys and the

form used during the on-site and the postal surveys, see

Appendix A “Observation Studies” on page 21.

Survey Date Type Responses

Stage 2 8th Sept

2011

On-site 189

Postal 53

TOTAL 242

Table 4 Survey responses

Survey Date Type Responses

Stage 1 10th Sept

2010

On-site 144

Postal / On-line 63

TOTAL 207

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

0%

10%

20%

30%

PedestriansStage 1

PedestriansStage 2

CyclistsStage 1

CyclistsStage 2

average

66%

average

82%

Interactions studies

Assessing the number of interactions and confl icts between

pedestrians and cyclists is key to determining the success of

the Shared Use Trial on Studio Walk. A study of interactions

amongst all park users was therefore conducted based on

the video footage collected on site, during both AM and PM

peaks hours in each stage of monitoring (September 2010

and September 2011).

Shared use routes raise the possibility of interactions

between pedestrians and cyclists, particularly as there are no

designated spaces for each user type to use. The interaction

studies provided an objective assessment of interactions

that highlighted potential issues with the site and, more

specifi cally, informed the evaluation presented in “Criterion

3: PASS” on page 15.

Typical user behaviour along cycling and walking routes can

vary depending on factors such as:

• The type of user;

• The design of the space, its proposed use and how it is

used in practice;

• The current activity levels and proportion of each user

type; and

• The individual circumstances.

In addition to what is considered typical behaviour, there

are three types of interactions and near-miss scenarios

categorised as potential confl icts:

• Minor confl ict;

• Major confl ict; and

• Collision.

A more detailed description of the methodology followed

to assess pedestrian/cycle interaction on Studio Walk can

be found in the Appendix in “Interactions study” on page

23.

Figure 24 Awareness of Shared Use Trial by pedestrians and cyclists

Figure 25 Shared use trial signage on Studio Walk

Figure 26 Undertaking an on-site questionnaire

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14

Technical Report

Criterion 1: PASS

No fewer than 95% of users surveyed during perception studies must rate the overall quality of the Park ‘good’ or ‘excellent’.

“Based on customer research surveys, anything more

than a 2% drop in respondents fi nding the ‘quality of

their visit excellent or good’ with ‘cycling in the park’ as

a stated reason fails this criterion.” This is benchmarked

against customer research studies carried out in The

Regent’s Park by Synovate in 2005 & 2006 in which 97%

of respondents found the ‘quality of their visit excellent

or good.1

Main fi ndings:

Users’ opinions of the park are very high, with 97% of weekday users rating the overall quality of the park as good or excellent in 2011, and 99% in 2010 (Figure 27).

1 The Royal Parks, The Regent’s Park Broad Walk Shared-Use Cycle Project Summer

Trial Report and Extended Trial Criteria. August 2008

29%

3%

68%

36%

1% 0.5%

63%

Figure 27 Perception of the Park

Minimum Path Width Requirement

Shared-Use

path

ed

ge

cycl

ist

ed

ge z

on

e

0.5

m p

er

ed

ge (

0m

besi

de g

rass

)

ped

est

rian

ed

ge z

on

e

0.2

`m p

er

ed

ge (

0m

besi

de g

rass

)

path

ed

ge

ped

est

rian

/ c

yclis

t p

ass

ing

zo

ne

0.5

m p

er

ed

ge

4.5m

Minimum distance (excluding edge zones)

0.3m

Minimum distance

between group

0.6m0.6m

0.5m

Minimum distance

pass

ing

dis

tan

ce

1m 1m

Criterion 2: PASS

The level of comfort for pedestrians along Studio Walk must not fall below A or B (measured using the Platoon Level of Service methodology).

This criterion is equivalent to that used in the monitoring of

The Broad Walk Shared Use Trial Scheme, The Regent’s Park,

described as:

“The level of service for The Broad Walk must be B or

above for peak pedestrian/cycle fl ows based on video

footage and the physical attributes of the route.” This

is benchmarked against the Kensington Gardens Shared

Use Study carried out by Atkins in 2008. Levels are from

A (open movement) to F (jammed). The Level of Service

on the Broad Walk without cycling is Level of Service B.2

The design of a path can be important to encourage, or

hinder, responsible use by all users. In particular, the width

of a path and its capacity can be a key driver for successfully

sharing space. When assessing the capacity of a path and

its design it is important to take into account the level of

pedestrian and cycling activity, and how activity on the path

varies with time, i.e. during weekday commuting periods.

Using research conducted by Atkins for Transport for

London on shared use cycle routes, the Level of Service has

been calculated for pedestrians during Studio Walk Shared

Use trial. Level of Service is a standard measurement of

pedestrian capacity and level of comfort. In this context,

the methodology assesses the peak volume of pedestrian

fl ow activity and the amount of available, usable space for

pedestrians.

2 The Royal Parks, The Regent’s Park Broad Walk Shared-Use Cycle Project Summer

Trial Report and Extended Trial Criteria. August 2008

Main fi ndings:

Taking into account the effect of cyclists, the Platoon Level

of Service for pedestrians along the majority of Studio Walk

during the PM peak hour is calculated as A and B. This

accounts for the presence of obstructions such as street

furniture (e.g. benches and high fence) on the path.

Studio Walk is a straight, shared use path with a relatively

steep but short downhill gradient at the eastern end,

between 6% and 10% at its steepest point. This is only for

a distance of approximately 20m, and the western part of

the path is fl at. The surfacing is currently in good condition

and the path shows good sight lines. The street furniture is

consistently located on the southern side of the path, with a

high fence along the northern side.

This Level of Service assessment suggests that there is

suffi cient space along this route at weekday peak times to

accommodate a shared use facility with the current level of

user activity.

• The Level of Service of the path at Studio Walk East is calculated as A, with all pedestrians or one cyclist taken into account, and at B, with two cyclists taken into account.

• The Level of Service on Studio Walk by Studio Gate is calculated as A, with all pedestrians, one cyclist or two cyclists taken into account.

It should be noted that this route is likely to have a different

level of pedestrian activity at weekends. Therefore it is

recommended to monitor fl ows at weekends to ensure that

there is suffi cient capacity at peak times.

Information on the Level of Service can be found in the

Appendix “Level of Service Assessment” on page 27.

Figure 28 Desirable minimum path width recommended for unsegregated

shared use (active/high fl ows)

Stage 1 (2010) Stage 2 (2011)

Excellent Good Satisfactory Poor Very Poor No Opinion

Evaluating Critical Success Factors

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1530 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

Criterion 3: PASS

Based on video surveys along Studio Walk more than 95% of cycle journeys must involve neither minor confl ict nor major confl ict.

Minor confl ict is defi ned as when a ‘cyclist or pedestrian

has to brake or change direction but the movement is

calm and controlled within a 2m distance of each other’.

Major confl ict is defi ned as ‘cyclist or pedestrian has to

take emergency action, within 1m of each other, in what is

considered to be a near miss’.1

Assessing the number of confl icts between pedestrians

and cyclists is key to evaluating the success of the shared

use scheme. Typical user behaviour along cycling and

walking routes can vary depending on factors including,

but not limited to, current activity levels, the type of user,

proportions of each user group and the design of the space

(its proposed use and how it is used in practice).

The level of potential confl ict is sometimes perceived to

increase on unsegregated shared use routes, particularly as

there is no designated exclusive space for either pedestrians

or cyclists. However, unsegregated space can increase the

awareness of pedestrian priority amongst all users, and

support considerate cycling by the majority of cyclists.

1 The Royal Parks, The Regent’s Park Broad Walk Shared-Use Cycle

Project Summer Trial Report and Extended Trial Criteria. August 2008

Main fi ndings:

To understand the behaviours along Studio Walk, the

same three locations - shown in “Figure 9 Survey locations

on Studio Walk” on page 9 - were assessed in both

monitoring stages. All the interactions recorded on site

throughout the monitoring study are shown in Table 5.

During both stages of monitoring the percentage of cycle journeys not involving either minor or major confl ict was equal to or above 98%.

More specifi cally, in September 2010:

• On Studio Walk East - out of a total of 272 journeys, only one minor confl ict was highlighted.

• Palace Entrance, Studio Walk - two minor confl icts were observed during the survey out of a total of 250 cycle journeys.

• Studio Gate, Studio Walk - out of a total of 230 cycle journeys, fi ve minor confl icts were highlighted, accounting for 2% of cycle journeys.

In September 2011:

• On Studio Walk (east) - out of a total of 439 journeys, only one minor confl ict was highlighted.

• Palace Entrance, Studio Walk - no confl icts were observed during the survey out of a total of 410 cycle journeys.

• Studio Gate, Studio Walk - out of a total of 408 cycle journeys, one major confl ict and fi ve minor confl icts were highlighted, accounting for 1.5% of cycle journeys.

More information on the method and terminology used in

the interaction study for the assessment of Criterion 3 can

be found in the Appendix in “Interactions study” on page

23. This includes an illustration of the “major confl ict”

listed in Table 5 alongside.

Table 5 Summary of interactions at the three locations recorded during both stages of monitoring

Studio Walk East

2011 Studio Walk (east) Wednesday 08:56:20Minor

conflict

A pedestrian is walking along the

Broad Walk.

A cyclist is crossing the Broad Walk

going eastwards.

The pedestrian has to stop to avoid

the cyclist.Eastbound

Low (mostly

straight)No Normal <1

286 Euston RoadLondon NW1 3AT

Introduction Unexpected Action Response

2010 Studio Walk (east) Wednesday 17:22:17Minor

conflict

A group of 3 pedestrian stopped at

the entry to Studio Walk and a

cyclist is heading East towards The

Broad Walk.

Pedestrians do not see the cyclist,

whilst another pedestrian stops. Cyclist swerves. Eastbound

High (zig-

zagging)No Normal <1

Date TimeDayLocationInteraction

Grade

Indicative Passing Distance (metres)

Indicative Speed of Cyclist

Child Cyclist?Cyclist Direction

of TravelCyclist

Tortousity

Description

Palace Entrance

2011 Palace Entrance Wednesday8:00-9:00 and 18:00-

19:00

No user

discomfort

286 Euston RoadLondon NW1 3AT

Introduction Unexpected Action Response

2010 Palace entrance Wednesday 08:12:10Minor

conflict

A cyclist and a pedestrian in front

heading eastwards on Studio Walk.

Two joggers approaching from the

east. A lorry parked outside the

Palace entrance.

Cyclisted slowed down and wiggle

between pedestrian and joggers.

Pedestrian stopped as did not

noticed the cyclist closely behind to

go pass.

EastboundLow (mostly

straight)Yes Slow <1

2010 Palace entrance Wednesday 17:49:05Minor

conflict

A group of people walking

spreadout on Studio Wak heading

east. A cyclist with trailer

approaching them from the east.

A group of three pedestrians

unaware of the cyclist and walked

in front of the cyclist and stopped.

Cyclist slowed down, stopped and

wiggle through between them.

Child pedestrian was forced to walk

back to allow enough space for

cyclist to pass through

WestboundHigh (zig-

zagging)No Normal <1

Date TimeDayLocationInteraction

Grade

Indicative Passing Distance (metres)

Indicative Speed of Cyclist

Child Cyclist?Cyclist Direction

of TravelCyclist

Tortousity

Description

cyclist to pass through.

Studio Gate

2011 Studio Gate Wednesday 08:32:47Minor

conflictA pedestrian enters Studio Walk

A cyclist approaches the gate on

the same side.

The pedestrian has to stop for a

moment until cyclists passes on the

opposide side of the gate.

Westbound

Medium

(minor zig-

zagging)

No Normal <1

2011 Studio Gate Wednesday 08:32:55Minor

conflict

A pedestrian with a dog enters

Studio Walk

A cyclist approaches the gate on

the same side.

The pedestrian has to stop for a

moment until cyclists passes on the

opposide side of the gate.

Westbound

Medium

(minor zig-

zagging)

No Normal <1

2011 Studio Gate Wednesday 08:50:12Minor

conflict

A cyclist on cycle hire exits the gate

without dismountingA pedestrian enters the gate

The pedestrian has to stop to allow

the cyclist to turn to the other side

of the gate

Westbound

Medium

(minor zig-

zagging)

No Normal <1

2011 Studio Gate Wednesday 18:02:29Minor Cyclist exits the gate without

Three pedestrians enter Studio

Walk and another cyclist

The pedestrians stop to let cyclist

pass while the another cyclist cycles Eastbound

Medium

(minor zig- No Slow <12011 Studio Gate Wednesday 18:02:29conflict dismounting

Walk and another cyclist

approaches the gate behind them

pass, while the another cyclist cycles

through them from behind

Eastbound (minor zig-

zagging)

No Slow <1

2011 Studio Gate Wednesday 18:38:40Minor

conflictA pedestrian exits Studio Walk

Three cyclists enter the gate

without dismounting

The pedestrian has to stop abruptly

to let the cyclists inEastbound

High (zig-

zagging)No Normal <1

2011 Studio Gate Wednesday 18:45:28Major

conflictA jogger exits Studio Gate

A cyclist enters gate without

dismounting

Both have to stop abruptly to avoid

each other.Eastbound

Low (mostly

straight)No Slow <1

286 Euston RoadLondon NW1 3AT

Introduction Unexpected Action Response

2010 Studio Gate Wednesday 08:35:49Minor

conflict

Cyclist exiting Studio Walk and a

jogger entering.

Cyclist did not slow down or get off

the bike.

Both cyclist and jogger stopped at

entry gate to give way to jogger. Westbound

Very Low

(straight)No Normal/Fast <1

2010 Studio Gate Wednesday 08:37:42Minor

conflict

Both pedestrian and cyclist entering

Studio Walk

Pedestrian changed walking

direction to southwards and cyclist

continue towards the east.

Pedestrian stopped to let cyclist

continue. Eastbound

Very Low

(straight)No Slow 1-2

2010 Studio Gate Wednesday 08:40:15Minor

conflict

Child cyclist exiting Studio Walk and

an adult cyclist entering.

Child cyclist saw adult cyclist at the

entry gate

Child cyclist stopped at guardrail

and swerved to let adult cyclist

walked in on foot.

WestboundVery Low

(straight)Yes Normal <1

A pedestrian with a dog stopped at

Date TimeDayLocationInteraction

Grade

Indicative Passing Distance (metres)

Indicative Speed of Cyclist

Child Cyclist?Cyclist Direction

of TravelCyclist

Tortousity

Description

2010 Studio Gate Wednesday 08:49:40Minor

conflict

the western end of Studio Walk

and two cyclists entering Studio

Walk.

Two cyclists entering as normal and

swerved between the pedestrian.

Pedestrian stopped to let cyclists

pass before release his dog. Eastbound

Very Low

(straight)No Slow 1-2

2010 Studio Gate Wednesday 17:47:52Minor

conflict

Cyclist with trailer exiting Studio

Walk and a pedestrian approaching

Studio Walk

Pedestrian sees cyclist exiting

without dismounting the bike

Pedestrian stopped outside the

guardrail to give way for cyclist to

exit

WestboundVery Low

(straight)No Slow >2

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16

Technical Report

Criterion 4: BORDERLINE PASS

75% of pedestrians surveyed during perception studies should be either satisfi ed, comfortable or very comfortable with cycling on Studio Walk.

“This is benchmarked against surveys in Kensington

Gardens in which 74% of pedestrians thought the cycle

routes worked OK, Well, or Very Well. The data collected

will be further analysed with information on vulnerable

users (classifi ed and registered disabled, elderly and

people with children under 5 years of age). If there is a

higher proportion of this group who are ‘uncomfortable’

with the scheme this will be a critical failure. Dog

walkers will also be considered in a separate category.

Further analysis will be carried out and considered if the

percentage falls between 95% and 75% (one in twenty

to one in four ‘uncomfortable’ with the trial).” 1

Main fi ndings:

78% of pedestrians were either satisfi ed, comfortable or very comfortable with the scheme in September 2010, and 74% in September 2011.

The second stage of monitoring found this criterion to be

at the borderline of the threshold set in the previous stage

of monitoring and other similar assessments for The Royal

Parks. However, it should be noted that construction works

were taking place on the day of the survey, which may have

affected the perception of the scheme by those experiencing

temporary discomfort on site (see note alongside).

Due to the number of responses received, a small number of

additional negative responses can result in markedly lower

percentages.

1 The Royal Parks, The Regent’s Park Broad Walk Shared-Use Cycle

Project Summer Trial Report and Extended Trial Criteria. August 2008

25%13%

7%

2%

38%

15%

13%

13%

11%

2%

Very comfortable

Comfortable

Satisfactory

Not comfortable

44%17%

Very uncomfortable

No experience/opinion

Figure 29 Pedestrians’ comfort with the scheme

Figure 30 Temporary fence at Kensington Palace Entrance on the survey day

for the second stage of monitoring (8th September 2011)

Stage 1 (2010) Stage 2 (2011)

Note on the site’s conditions

on the survey day

On the day of the on-site questionnaire surveys in

monitoring stage 2 (8th September 2011), the open

space opposite the entrance to Kensington Palace was

temporarily fenced off (Figure 30) whilst construction

works were being carried out along Studio Walk. This was

being undertaken as part of long term improvements to

Kensington Palace. It is probable that these works had a

detrimental impact on the results of the questionnaire,

and it likely overall satisfaction rates recorded during

construction works are lower than at other times.

A selection of comments on the Studio Walk Shared Use Trial scheme collected from park users during our perception surveys:

• “It’s fi ne”

• “Very happy about cycling on Studio Walk “

• “Good, safe, more signage could be useful”

• “It’s fi ne if everyone respects other users”

• “There should be clearer cycling signs”

• “There should be more speed restrictions”

• “There are some cyclists who go too fast and are

arrogant. This needs to be controlled. But do not have

a separate cycle lane. This is more dangerous as cyclists

believe they can do whatever they like in the lane. “

• “There should be a separate lane for cyclists“

• “There are issues with dogs, it is too dark at evening

time“

• “Studio Walk is popular for walkers and visitors. It is

dangerous - proven, from personal experience - to have

cyclists going at a speed“

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1730 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

17%

17%33%

5%6%

22%

33%

34%

15%

10%

5%

1%

35%

5%

42%21%

16%

42%

16%

17%

11%

9%

Very comfortable

Comfortable

Satisfactory

Not comfortable

40%

23%

Very uncomfortable

No experience/opinion

27%

13%

9%

7%

3%

Very comfortable

Comfortable

Satisfactory

Not comfortable

41%

Very uncomfortable

No experience/opinion

21%

11%

4%14%

Very comfortable

Comfortable

Satisfactory

Not comfortable

Very uncomfortable

50%

Very uncomfortable

No experience/opinion

Figure 31 Overall comfort with the scheme

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

0%

10%

20%

Under 16 17-25 26-35 36-45 46-55 Over 55 Total

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

No experience/opinion

Very uncomfortable

Not comfortable

Satisfactory

Comfortable

Very comfortable

0%

10%

20%

Under 16 17-25 26-35 36-45 46-55 Over 55 Total

Positive overall perception of the Shared-use scheme

In total, 84% of all surveyed users who expressed an

opinion in 2010 were either satisfi ed, comfortable or very

comfortable with the Shared Use Trial (Figure 31). In 2011

the overall perception with the scheme was also very high

(81%).

High perception amongst park users with dogs

Of all park users walking a dog, 80% were either satisfi ed,

comfortable or very comfortable with the shared use trial

scheme in 2011, up from 53% in 2010 (Figure 32).

High perception amongst park users with children

The percentage of people with young children who are

either comfortable or very comfortable with the shared use

trial also increased during the trial (Figure 33), from 63% to

82%.

Figure 32 Dog walkers’ comfort with the scheme

Figure 33 People with children’s comfort with the scheme

Figure 34 Comfort of all weekday users by age

Stage 1 (2010)

Stage 1 (2010)Stage 1 (2010)

Stage 1 (2010)

Stage 2 (2011)

Stage 2 (2011)Stage 2 (2011)

Stage 2 (2011)

Breakdown of perceptions by age group

Of all respondents, perceived comfort tends to decrease

with age, as shown in Figure 34. About a third of

respondents over the age of 55 were recorded as not

comfortable or very uncomfortable with the shared use

trial in the 2011 survey. The graph in Figure 34 shows a

comparison of the results collected during the two stages of

monitoring.

Identify issues perceived by specifi c user types

The questionnaire surveys aimed to capture a diverse range

of park users, to highlight the use of the Park by all public

and identify any issues perceived by specifi c user types.

Despite a high range of user types and demographics

recorded during both series of surveys, no respondents

considered themselves to have disabilities in either stages of

monitoring.

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18

Technical Report

Criterion 5: PASS

94% of cyclists surveyed during perception studies should be either satisfi ed, comfortable or very comfortable with cycling on Studio Walk.

“This is benchmarked against surveys in Kensington

Gardens in which 94% of cyclists thought the cycle

routes worked OK, Well, or Very Well).”1

Main fi ndings:

In 2010 all of the 55 cyclists who responded where either satisfi ed, comfortable or very comfortable with the shared use trial. In 2011, the rate was 95%, with

all positive responses with the exception of a single cyclist

rating the scheme “not comfortable” and three cyclists

answering “no experience/opinion”. See Figure 35 below.

Some people suggested a segregated path should be in

place, although research suggest this could increase cycling

speeds and potential confl ict with pedestrians.

1 The Royal Parks, The Regent’s Park Broad Walk Shared-Use Cycle

Project Summer Trial Report and Extended Trial Criteria. August 2008Figure 36 Shared use signage used on Studio Walk (road markings)

Regular maintenance of current signage required

A number of users suggested more effective shared use

signage should be in use. Research is inconclusive whether

any additional signage would provide any direct benefi t,

although the current provision of signage would benefi t

from regular maintenance should the decision be made

for the path to become a permanent shared use route.

The difference in the conditions of the surface markings

between the two monitoring stages in 2010 and 2011 is

shown in the example in Figure 36 below.

Figure 35 Cyclists’ comfort with the scheme

Comments recorded in 2010:

• “Very Positive. Cycle routes through Kensington

Gardens provide safe, enjoyable an sustainable means of

commuting into Central London, and should be strongly

supported”

• “it works well with Studio Walk now open for cycling”

• “opening this has shortened my journey and I can say I

have had no problem with pedestrians”

• “Very well, I use it as my commute”

• “Important that cyclists are respectful. Hope cycling

access remain in place”

• (“the shared paths should be marked, with one for bikes

and others for pedestrians, like Rotten Row”)

• (“A dedicated cycle lane would be better”)

• “As long as cyclists don’t speed, no problem”

Stage 1 (2010) Stage 2 (2011)

Comments recorded in 2011:

• “Great idea, supported by all people I know who live in

Kensington & Chelsea “

• “I cycle through every day to and from work”

• “It works very well as a shared surface. It would be

good to extend the shared route through the passage to

Kensington Church Street”

• “It makes sense. It is a much safer way to get to

Kensington High St or Church St and also to Holland

Park”

• “On weekends my kids also use Studio Walk for cycling”

• “I decrease the speed when crossing the park to avoid

accidents.”

• “Signage could be better, many pedestrian (often

tourists) seem unaware it is a shared path”

• (“Cyclists should use the path more carefully and be

slower”)

15%

58%27%

36%

4%1% 4%

Very comfortable

Comfortable

Satisfactory

Not comfortable

55%36%

Very uncomfortable

No experience/opinion

Stage 1 (2010) Stage 2 (2011)

Figure 37 Cyclists and pedestrians sharing the path on Studio Walk

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1930 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

Kensington Gardens is a very important green space for

local residents and a key tourist attraction in London. The

Studio Walk Shared Use Trial encourages cycling in the park

and offers a more integrated east-west route to cyclists.

The research shows that the path is well used and the level

of confl ict between pedestrians and cyclists is low. Overall,

satisfaction levels of the trial were high, with most set

‘success factors’ falling within the agreed thresholds.

Correspondence received by The Royal Parks during the

trial period confi rmed high levels of satisfaction with the

scheme, with 24 out of 26 respondents in favour of the trial

route becoming permanent.

The key fi ndings of the second stage of monitoring are

shown in Figure 38 alongside.

Recommendations

It is recommended that Studio Walk be added to the Royal

Parks’ cycle route network but continues to be monitored by

the Park Managment team for changes in users’ behaviour

or occurrence of confl ict. It is also recommended that a

review of signage and markings is undertaken.

In particular:

• It is recommended that an additional review of users’

perception of the scheme is conducted in the upcoming

year following the conclusion of works to improve

Kensington Palace, alongside further informal monitoring

to be undertaken by the Park Management team.

• A number of users suggested more effective shared

use signage should be in use. Research is inconclusive

whether any additional signage would provide any direct

benefi t, although the current provision of signage would

benefi t from regular maintenance.

• The assessments were undertaken on a typical weekday

only. Weekend fl ow levels, interactions and behaviours

are likely to differ from those recorded on a weekday.

Therefore, any further monitoring and analysis could

include the weekend to reinforce the weekday

assessment and to ensure the high levels of satisfaction

and low level of confl ict remain during the peak leisure

fl ows. Figure 38 Map of key fi ndings on cycling and pedestrian movement on Studio Walk

Many cyclists slow down

but few dismount at Studio

Gate.

At the time of the 2011 surveys

the open space opposite

Kensington Palace Entrance was

temporarily fenced off; however

fencing has since been removed.

The capacity of the

path is suffi cient

to accommodate

pedestrian and cycle

fl ows at peak hours.

The capacity of the

path is suffi cient

to accommodate

pedestrian and cycle

fl ows at peak hours.

Average cycling

speeds are under

12mph for privately

owned bicycles and

10mph for hired

bikes.

Some cycling observed

on this path .

Very low numbers

of cyclists on these

non-cycle paths

were observed.

Studio Walk East

entrance to

Kensington

Palace

Studio

Gate

side path

side path

side pathSTUDIO WALK

STUDIO WALK

Conclusions

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20

Technical Report

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2127 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

a Appendix

Observation Studies

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22

Introduction

This section provides details of our observation studies. All

assessments presented in this report are based on the video

and the questionnaire surveys described in the following

paragraphs.

About our video surveys

Our assessment of activity, behaviour and the effect on how

people use the shared route on Studio Walk is based on

video footage fi lmed on:

• Monitoring Stage 1: Thursday 9th September, 7:00-8:30;

• Monitoring Stage 1: Wednesday 15th September 2011,

7:00-10:00 and 16:00-19:00; and

• Monitoring Stage 2: 7th September 2011, 7:00-10:00

and 16:00-19:00.

Due to a technical fault during the fi rst stage of monitoring,

the assessment of Studio Walk East between 7:00 and 8:30

is based on footage fi lmed on 9th September 2010. The

assessment of all other time periods and locations are based

on footage fi lmed on 15th September 2010.

Figure 39 Survey locations on Studio Walk

Studio Gate

Palace Entrance

Studio Walk East

Surveys based on video

footage

Pedestrian and cycle fl ow counts

The method used for this study is known as the ‘stationary

gate method’ whereby all pedestrians and cyclists who

cross an imaginary line are counted during fi xed periods.

Directionality is recorded as appropriate.

At each stage, using video footage recorded on a weekday

(see table alongside) we undertook a count of all the

footage at two key locations (Studio Walk East and Studio

Gate), split into 15 minute time intervals. From this survey

we obtained a time profi le for the day and defi ned the peak

hour of activity (based on the highest cyclist activity).

Subsequently, a continuous count of pedestrians and cyclists

was undertaken at Studio Walk East for the peak hour of

activity. This was also used to collect demographic data of

the park’s users, which also indicate the number of park

users with dogs and those with children. Cyclists using Cycle

Hire Scheme bicycles were counted separately from cyclists

using their own bicycle.

Cycling speed surveys

Measurements of cycling speeds were undertaken at Studio

Walk (East) during the morning and the afternoon peak

hours. Cycling speed at this location was of concern due to

the high level of pedestrian and cycling fl ows, as well as the

presence of a level change which could increase the speed

of cyclist going towards Studio Gate.

A sample of 80 cyclists were observed, 40 in the AM

peak and 40 in the PM peak periods. An equal number of

privately own and hired bicycles were observed to provide a

comparison of speed between the two typologies.

About our questionnaire surveys

Statistics on users’ perception are based on questionnaire

surveys undertaken in the same periods and at the same

locations as the video surveys, on the dates listed below:

• Monitoring Stage 1: 10th September 2010, 7:00-10:00

and 16:00-19:00; and

• Monitoring Stage 2: 8th September 2011, 7:00-10:00

and 16:00-19:00.

The three locations along Studio Walk considered in this

study are shown on the map in Figure 39 below.Figure 40 Example of camera view at Studio Walk East

Figure 41 Example of camera view at the Palace Entrance

Figure 42 Example of camera view at Studio Gate

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2327 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

Interactions study

Assessing the number of interactions and confl icts between

pedestrians and cyclists is key to determining the success of

the shared use trial on Studio Walk.

Typical user behaviour along cycling and walking routes can

vary depending on factors such as:

• The type of user;

• The design of the space, its proposed use and how it is

used in practice;

• The current activity levels and proportion of each user

type;

• The individual circumstance.

Shared use routes raise the possibility of interactions

between pedestrians and cyclists, particularly as there are no

designated spaces for each user type to use.

Following the same methodology as the previous stage of

monitoring, an analysis of interactions and confl icts between

cyclists and pedestrians was undertaken using video footage

at the three sections of Studio Walk, Kensington Gardens.

A full list of recorded confl icts can be found in “Criterion 3:

PASS” on page 15. Details provided include:

• A description of events;

• Time of day and date of the event;

• Indicative passing distance; and

• Indicative speed.

Surveys took place on a weekday at both AM and PM peak

hours during both stages of monitoring.

DEFINITIONS: types of interaction and confl ict

In addition to what is considered typical behaviour (no user’s

discomfort), there are three types of interactions and near-

miss scenarios categorised as potential confl icts:

Minor confl ict

In response to unexpected action, a cyclist or pedestrian

has to brake or change direction to avoid a collision, but

movement is generally calm and controlled. Factors that

affect a minor confl ict could include:

• At least one party may be unaware of the other’s

intended route (poor visibility on approach, high speed or

narrow passing distance).

• The rate of change in velocity needed to avoid collision is

low, and/or movement is calm and controlled.

• The perceived consequence of neither party taking action

could be a collision.

Major confl ict

In response to unexpected action, a cyclist or pedestrian has

to take emergency action in what is considered to be a near

miss.

Factors that affect a major confl ict could include:

• The rate of change in velocity needed to avoid collision is

high and/or movement is uncontrolled.

• At least one party is unaware of the other’s intended

route (poor visibility on approach, high speed and/ or

narrow passing distance).

• The perceived consequence of neither party taking action

could be a severe collision.

Collision

Actual physical contact, could be slight or severe.

• No collisions were observed or assessed along Studio

Walk during our survey.

1

3

2

4

jogger

approaching

the gatea cyclist enters from the right

side, the jogger moves to the left

a cyclist enters from the left,

the jogger and the cyclist have

to stop abruptly to avoid each other

both continue their

journeys after a short

pause

Figure 43 The only major confl ict highlighted during the survey

Illustration of a major confl ict

An example of confl ict recorded on Studio Walk during the

second stage of monitoring is shown below. This was the

only major confl ict recorded in the monitoring study during

the duration of the trial period.

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24

Questionnaire Surveys

The results from the questionnaire surveys were complied

and analysed in a database. This provided a series of

assessments of the perception of the Park categorised by the

type of park user.

The photo in Figure 44 below shows an observer

undertaking a questionnaire survey on site.

To guarantee a consistent approach to the assessments, the

same questionnaire form was used in the two monitoring

stages. This can be seen in Figure 45 to Figure 47.

Atkins

Euston Tower

286 Euston Road

London NW1 3AT

www.atkinsglobal.com

Atkins Intelligent Space Partnership Limited Registered Office: Woodcote Grove Ashley Road Epsom Surrey KT18 5BW England Registered in England Company Number: 5609795

Studio Walk, Kensington Gardens

Thank you very much for taking this questionnaire. It should take no longer than five minutes to

complete. This survey is being carried out by Atkins on behalf of The Royal Parks.

A shared use cycle and pedestrian trial is running from 2 August 2010 to 31 January 2012 on Studio

Walk, Kensington Gardens. As part of the trial, Atkins is investigating the attitudes and opinions of

different users of Kensington Gardens towards the scheme.

We would be grateful if you could fill out the attached questionnaire regarding your visit to the park.

Please return the questionnaire to Atkins within two weeks using the postage-paid addressed envelope

provided.

The cycle trial aims to encourage people to enjoy cycling in green spaces and test the suitability of Studio

Walk as a permanent cycling route. Following the positive responses of the first monitoring stage, a

second and final assessment is taking place. Park users have been consulted throughout the monitoring

process.

If you have any specific queries about this questionnaire, or would prefer a copy in large print, please

contact our team on 0207 121 2551 or email us at [email protected]. If you have any

general queries about this survey, please contact The Royal Parks at [email protected].

Thanks again for sharing your views with us.

i What was the time of your visit when given this survey? please specify

We would like to know some information about your visit to the park

ii Were you cycling or walking? X Cyclist X Pedestrian

1 What was your main means of transport X Walk X Car

X Cycle (used Own Bicycle) X Taxi/minicab

X Cycle (used Cycle Hire) X Coach please specify

X Tube/Underground X Train please specify

please specify station X Other please specify

X Local Bus

2 How frequently do you visit / use X 5 times a week or more X yearly

Kensington Gardens? X 1 - 4 times a week X less than once a year

X monthly X first visit

3 In which season(s) do you visit / use the park? X All year round X Autumn

X Spring X Winter

X Summer

4a How long did your journey to the park take X Less than 5 minutes X 20 - 30 minutes

on this visit? X 5 - 10 minutes X more than 30 minutes

to the park on this visit?

Studio Walk, Kensington Gardens

Thank you very much for taking a questionnaire. It should take no longer than five minutes to complete. A shared use cycle and pedestrian trial route is running from 2 August 2010 to 31 January 2012 on Studio Walk, Kensington Gardens. As part of the trial, Atkins is investigating the attitudes and opinions of different users of the park on behalf of the Royal Parks.

on this visit? X 5 10 minutes X more than 30 minutes

X 10- 15 minutes X do not know / cannot remember

X 15 - 20 minutes

4b How far did you travel to reach the park today? X Less than 1 mile X 5 - 10 miles

X 1 -2 miles X more than 10 miles

X 2 - 5 miles X don't know / other

5 How long did you stay in the park during X 30 minutes or less X 3 - 4 hours

this visit? X 31 - 60 minutes X 4 - 5 hours

X 1 - 2 hours X More than 5 hours

X 2 - 3 hours X do not know / cannot remember

6 How would you rate the quality of X Excellent: go to q8 X Poor: go to q7

the park overall? X Good: go to q8 X Very poor: go to q7

X Satisfactory: go to q7 X No opinion: go to q8

7 What affected your enjoyment of the Park on your visit?

8 Are you aware of the current Pilot Scheme X Yes X No

whereby pedestrians and cyclists share the Studio Walk?

9a How do you feel about the current Pilot Scheme 5 very comfortable; no perception of conflict

whereby pedestrians and cyclists share the Studio Walk? 4 comfortable; perception that collisions/near misses are rare and mostly

without incident

3 satisfactory; interactions mostly without incident

2 not comfortable; perception that collisions/ near misses occur quite frequently

1 very uncomfortable; perception that collisions/ near misses very frequent

0 no opinion / no experience

9b Any additional comments?

Figure 44 Undertaking an on-site questionnaire Figure 45 Example Questionnaire (postal), Covering sheet Figure 46 Example Questionnaire (postal), page 1

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2527 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

Figure 47 Example Questionnaire (postal), page 2

10 Overall how do you feel about cycling in Kensington Gardens?

11 Please write any other comments about cycling, walking or shared use on Studio Walk below

If you cycled on your visit to the Kensington Gardens

12a How often do you cycle on Studio Walk? X Daily X More than once a year

X More than once a week X less than once a year

X More than once a month X first time

12b For what reason were you using the park? X Leisure X Commuting

X Avoid busy roads X Other please specify

12c Do you ever cycle on other paths in Kensington X Yes X No

Gardens where cyclists are not allowed?

If you walked a dog on your visit to the Kensington Gardens

13a How many dogs did you walk? number

13b How often do you walk your dog/s X Daily X More than once a year

in Kensington Gardens? X More than once a week X less than once a year

X More than once a month X first time

If you visited the Kensington Gardens with young children

14a How many children did you have with you? number

14b How often do you bring your children to X Daily X More than once a year

the Kensington Gardens? X More than once a week X less than once a year

X More than once a month X first time

14c Do you ever use a push chair? X Yes X No

14d Do your children bring bicycles/ scooters? X Yes X No

It would be helpful if you could provide the following information. You are under no obligation to give it.

15 Do you consider yourself to have a disability that X Visual or hearing impaired

affects your use of the parks and open spaces? X Mobility impaired

X Other please specify

16a What gender are you? X Male X Female

16b What is your age? X under 16 X 17-25 X 26-35

X 36-45 X 46-55 X over 55

17 What is the first part of your postcode? E.g. W8

18 Do you belong to any organisation which has a particular interest in Kensington Gardens? If so, please give details.

Thank you for taking the time to complete this questionnaire. Your help is much appreciated.

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26

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2727 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

Appendix

Level of Service Assessmentb

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A Open

B Impeded

C Constrained

D Congested

E Crowded

F Jammed

Platoon LOS Description

Introduction

The design of a path can be important to encourage, or

hinder, responsible use by all users. In particular, the width

of a path and its capacity can be a key driver for successfully

sharing space.

When assessing the capacity of a path and its design it is

important to take into account the level of pedestrian and

cyclist activity, and how activity on the path varies with time.

This supports an understanding of how a path functions

during commuting periods or during busy weekend

afternoons, when capacity issues are signifi cant.

1m

Cyclist width

(DfT 2008)

0.5m

edge bounding

0m

beside grass

Cyclist edge zones

0.5m

Minimum distance

Width required by two cyclists

(DfT 2008)

pass

ing

dis

tance

1m 1m

0.6m

Person width

(Fruin)

0.1m

Minimum distance

between couple

Width required by two pedestrians

(Level of Service for London 2008)

0.6m0.6m

0.2m

edge bounding

0m

beside grass

Pedestrian edge zones

Our approach

Using the methodology followed in the previous

assessments for The Royal Parks and research conducted by

Atkins for Transport for London on shared use cycle routes,

we have assessed the Level of Service for pedestrians during

the Studio Walk Shared Use Trial.

Level of Service is a standard measurement of pedestrian

capacity and level of comfort. In this context, the

methodology assesses the peak volume of pedestrian fl ow

activity and the amount of available, usable space for users.

Platoon Level of Service

Level of Service is measured on a sliding scale to benchmark

the level of comfort of routes from A, with plenty of

available space to walk or cycle freely, through to F, where

the crowd and space available minimises the freedom of

movement. The scale is shown in Figure 48.

The Platoon Level of Service standard takes into account

grouping of pedestrians, whether voluntarily or involuntarily,

which tends to reduce the level of comfort for each user.

The Platoon Level of Service is therefore appropriate for

open space and park environments such as Studio Walk

where people often walk together.

Space requirements

Although the capacity of a shared use or segregated path

is dependent on the level of pedestrian and cyclist activity,

there are desirable minimum widths which accommodate a

rudimentary level of use.

User widths

Guidance on minimum and recommended widths for shared

and segregated cycling routes in open spaces is inconsistent.

Atkins made recommendations to TfL as part of guidance

for cycling and walking on London’s greenways, which in

part aimed to assess previous guidelines and clarify the

amount of space cyclists and pedestrians typically use.

Figure 49 shows the space requirements for cyclists and

pedestrians, as determined by ongoing evaluation of current

guidelines and fi ndings.

Cyclist widths are taken from DfT1 and pedestrian widths are

taken from guidance prepared by Atkins for TfL’s Pedestrian

Comfort Guidance for London.

The width of a pavement available for users tends to be less

than the actual width of the path. This is often due to a

combination of two reasons:

• Obstructions such as street furniture (e.g. bins, benches

and signs) will reduce the amount of width available for

users; and

• Users tend to leave space between themselves and the

path edge, which can be adjacent to a wall, fence or

other obstruction.

These edge zones for cyclists and pedestrians are also

shown in Figure 49 and have been taken into account in our

analysis.

1 Cycle Infrastructure Design, Local Transport Note 2/08, October 2008,

DfTFigure 48 Platoon Level of Service descriptions

Figure 49 Pedestrian and cyclist space requirements

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2927 January 2012

Kensington Gardens Studio Walk

Minimum path width

Based on user widths, the recommended minimum width

of an unsegregated shared use route is a provided in Figure

50, which is based on low pedestrian and cyclist activity.

The minimum path width of 3.0m allows for one cyclist and

two pedestrians to pass side-by-side. Figure 51 provides

a desirable minimum path width for an unsegregated

route with active / high pedestrian and cyclist activity. The

minimum path width of 4.5m allows for two cyclists and

two pedestrians to pass side-by-side.

Unsegregated Shared-Use

path

edge

cycl

ist

edge z

one

0.5

m p

er

edge (0m

besi

de g

rass

)

pedest

rian e

dge z

one

0.2

`m p

er

edge (0m

besi

de g

rass

)

path

edge

1m

pedest

rian / c

yclis

t pass

ing z

one

0.5

m p

er

edge

3.0m

Minimum distance (excluding edge zones)

0.3m

Minimum distance

between group

0.6m0.6m

Figure 50 Minimum path width recommended for unsegregated shared use

(low activity)

Pedestrian Level of Service

Low cyclist activity: two cyclists passing

The assessment in Figure 52 shows the pedestrian Level of

Service, taking into account the minimum standard of space

required for two cyclist passing.

The Level of Service assessment suggests that there is

suffi cient space along most of the route at peak times to

accommodate a shared use facility with low levels of cyclist

activity.

A Open

B Impeded

C Constrained

D Congested

E Crowded

F Jammed

Level of Comfort

Los B (September 2010)

LoS B (Sept 2011)

Los B (September 2010)

LoS A (Sept 2011)

q

Shared-Use

path

edge

cycl

ist

edge z

one

0.5

m p

er

edge (0m

besi

de g

rass

)

pedest

rian e

dge z

one

0.2

`m p

er

edge (0m

besi

de g

rass

)

path

edge

pedest

rian / c

yclis

t pass

ing z

one

0.5

m p

er

edge

4.5m

Minimum distance (excluding edge zones)

0.3m

Minimum distance

between group

0.6m0.6m

0.5m

Minimum distance

pass

ing

dis

tan

ce

1m 1m

Measuring footway width

Pavement widths for Studio Walk were obtained from

on-site surveys by Atkins. The Level of Service calculation

is based on the ‘worst case scenario’ for pedestrian and

cyclist activity. For this reason, the minimum width of path

available for users (defi ned as the pinch point) was used in

the calculation, which takes into account the presence of

regular benches along the route.

Measuring pedestrian fl ow

Peak 15 minute fl ow (scaled to an equivalent fl ow per unit

time per unit width) have been used in all calculations.

Figure 51 Desirable minimum path width recommended for unsegregated

shared use (active/high activity)

Figure 52 Pedestrian Level of Service with two cyclists passing on a weekday

Unsegregated Shared-Use

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Atkins

Euston Tower, 286 Euston Road

London NW1 3AT

www.atkinsglobal.com