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The design of the pedestrian network 

When designing for pedestrians, quite often the ‘devil is in the detail’. This section gives detailed guidance on best practice so that those who design, operate and maintain the road network can better provide a quality walkable environment for all.

Higher standards of footpath design are required for two main reasons. Falls on footpaths are a serious problem, and existing designs are difficult to negotiate by people with impairments.

The main obstacle to walking is difficulty crossing roads. Well designed crossing facilities can make a real difference to safety and convenience. Specific attention is given to physical features such as kerb crossings,
islands, kerb protrusions and platforms. Attention to intersection details can make quite a difference.

Consideration of directional guidance, lighting and maintenance issues completes this part.

14 Footpaths

(PDF [PDF, 5 MB])

• Provide footpaths wherever pedestrians will use them
• Use footpath dimensions and geometry that provides access for all
• Choose surface materials for safety, convenience and aesthetics
• Manage design and location of street furniture
• Locate and design driveways appropriately
• Manage conflict on shared paths by good design and operation
• Provide quality connections to public transport

15 Crossings

(PDF [PDF, 5.3 MB])

Crossing facilities for pedestrians

• Designing crossing facilities at, and away from intersections
• Pedestrians’ crossing requirements
• Drivers’ crossing requirements
• Different crossing types and specifications

16 Measures to guide pedestrians

(PDF [PDF, 1.8 MB])

• Types of pedestrian signage and design
• Other methods to guide or channel pedestrians

17 Lighting the pedestrian network

(PDF [PDF, 750 KB])

• The need for lighting
• Lighting scheme design

18 Maintaining the pedestrian network

(PDF [PDF, 1.2 MB])

• Maintenance in the short and long term
• Planning for pedestrians during maintenance works

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Updated: 17 Nov 2009