Design

Section 3.1
Designing an environment for pedestrians should take a safe system approach of harm minimisation and meet universal design principles to ensure they meet the needs of all people.

Section 3.2
Streets and other public realm spaces, such as plazas and parks, malls and arcades are key players in the urban fabric of a city or town and form the pedestrian network. When planning and designing these spaces both the facilities provided for and the environment for people walking need to be considered.

Section 3.3
Design guidance for footpaths, shared paths and trails. Including considerations such as width, surfaces, visibility, overhead clearances and ramps and stairs.

Section 3.4
Pedestrians generally need to cross roads on every walking trip and may also need to cross railways, waterways and other natural features. Safe and appropriate crossings are therefore key elements in providing a connected network for pedestrians.

Revised edition February 2026

Section 3.5
Crossing activity often occurs at intersections where it is generally more complex to provide for pedestrians than mid-block locations.

Section 3.6
Infrastructure to support the pedestrian network enhances safety, amenity, legibility, comfort and wayfinding for pedestrians.