Living Streets has sent a clear message to Liverpool City Region Mayoral candidates calling for them to end pedestrian deaths and injuries on roads, tackle air pollution, to make walking easier but cutting pavement clutter and making school streets safe.
A Manifesto for Walking sets out key asks of candidates, including a default 20mph limit in built-up areas, more car-free zones, and measures to reduce pavement clutter and create more space for people walking.
According to its research, pedestrians account for almost a quarter (24%) of fatalities on built-up roads in Liverpool City Region and 37% of serious injuries. In 2019, more than 167 pedestrians were killed or seriously injured on the region’s roads.
Dirty air from polluting vehicles is impacting local communities, with air pollution estimated to contribute to 800 deaths a year in the Liverpool City Region, it said.
Mary Creagh, Chief Executive, Living Streets said: “During lockdown, we rediscovered the simple act of walking – the oldest, cheapest and greenest transport there is. But people are worried about speeding vehicles, dirty air, cluttered pavements, and dangerous crossings.
“It doesn’t have to be like this. By standing up for pedestrians, candidates can tackle road danger, air pollution and health problems, and redesign Liverpool City Region as a place where people can move and can breathe.”
