Greater pedestrianisation can bring a healthier way of life

The recent closure of Blakehall Road due to a ruptured water main caused some consternation in the local community. The through traffic had to find other routes, such as via Leytonstone High Road. Buses were re-routed. There was much queueing and frustration before things settled down. The closure lasted for around 10 days. Though, it was not all bad news. Many commented on how lovely it was to be able to walk and cycle along the quiet Blakehall Road. The air was cleaner for a while. A freedom was restored. There was a glimpse of what life can be like when everything is not run in favour of the motor vehicle. Obviously, there was much inconvenience to many, while Thames Water sorted out the problem. Other ways of getting from A to B had to be found. For some with disabilities the motor vehicle is a crucial mode of transport. Also, people need to get around in a timely manner to conduct their daily lives. Everyone was relieved when normal service did resume. But for that week there was a taster of something else - a less car dominated world. The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has been pushing active travel across the capital.His target is for 80% of journeys to be by foot, cycle or public transport by 2041. He is also expanding the Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) right across London from August. The critics of ULEZ expansion have been given much amplification over recent months (BBC London seems to feature the subject on a daily basis). Negativity has tended to dominate. But the Mayor is right to push for a cleaner, healthier, more sustainable way of living. These policies will help bring about that modal change.Maybe some more planned pedestrianisation would help? Then, all will be able to live better ways of life.