‘Shared Space’ is a relatively new name for a concept rising across Europe. It means a new philosophy and set of principles for the design, management and maintenance of streets and public spaces, based on the integration of traffic with other forms of human activity.
The most recognizable characteristic of shared space is the absence of conventional traffic signals, signs, road markings, humps and barriers. The driver in shared space becomes an integral part of the social and cultural context and behavior (such as speed) is controlled by everyday norms of behavior.
Tyréns has been commissioned by the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions to produce a publication about ‘Shared Space in Sweden'. It contains both an international view as well as a deeper evaluation of some spaces in Sweden.
The most well-known example in Sweden is Skvallertorget in Norrköping. The square was earlier a traditional, signalized intersection but has been transformed to a Mediterranean-inspired square with an impressive number of pedestrians, bikes, out-door cafés and people who are just sitting on benches. Evaluation showed that the intersection has become safer, the speed is lower and the traffic flow is more even.
The final report is to be published during spring 2008.
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