Urban design and walkability in north-west Sydney

As a sustainable and active form of transport, walking not only improves the environment and local economies, but also enhances personal health and opportunities for social interaction. Despite these positive contributions, utility walking is restricted by numerous cognitive and environmental features which seem to discourage a large percentage of potential walkers. Furthermore, walking is considered such a basic form of human activity that transport planners often overlook this most sustainable mode of transport. This paper explores the concept of 'walkability' and aims to reveal how contrasting urban design philosophies (traditional, conventional and hybrid) can impact upon the quality of the pedestrian environment. Three suburbs in Sydney's North-West were assessed for their walkability using quantitative and qualitative methods. Mapping analysis and discussion with stakeholders (resident groups, local governments and developers) were the overarching method, providing an insight into the feasibility of walking and its correlation with suburban design. The conclusion challenges dominant urban design thinking and presents feasible options which can be easily retrofitted into existing suburbs to enhance individual walking journeys.