Video: Car-Free Play Streets in the UK
A little weekend viewing from the west coast of England. Since the summer of 2009, neighbors in Bristol have organized "Playing Out" events on seven streets, setting aside car-free hours for kids to play in the street without constant parental supervision. Watching this video immediately brought to mind Clarence's Streetfilm of the 78th Street play street in Jackson Heights.
The Bristol moms behind "Playing Out" have put together a stellar web site laying out the case for car-free time on residential streets. I especially like their answer to the question: "Why do children need to play in the street when there are parks nearby?"
Parks are great for family outings and for older children who can get there independently but, unless you happen to live right next to a park, it usually involves a special trip, escorted and supervised by adults. Street play is very different. Firstly, it is literally on the doorstep so children can play ‘semi-supervised’ whilst parents get on with other things. This allows for more free, unstructured play, without being under the constant gaze of adults. Secondly, it is a step towards greater independence, giving both children and parents more confidence to gradually extend their ‘freedom to roam’, leading to children eventually being able to get to parks and other local places by themselves.
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from Streetsblog New York City
Police Brass Gets Booed During E-Vehicle Safety Alliance Meeting for Applauding Deliveristas
Attendees of the E-Vehicle Safety Alliance's latest meeting castigated a Transportation Bureau deputy inspector for saying that delivery workers are responsive to safety issues.
Thursday’s Headlines: Unsafe School Streets Edition
A school crossing guard was injured by a drunk driver on Tuesday. Plus more news.
EYES ON THE STREET: Drivers Dominate Former W. 22nd Open Street
Meh. The barriers are gone and the cars are back on W. 22nd, but some spaces for people remain.
‘Not Grieving Alone’: A Father’s Artistic Journey After Losing Two Kids to Road Violence
Colin Campbell and his wife Gail Lerner lost both their children in a car crash with impaired driver. Now, it's a show.
Opinion: Bring Back ‘Give Respect/Get Respect’ Campaign
If cyclists don't throw their own bad apples under the bus, we won't get safer streets, argues this West Side advocate.
