Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
The Sustainable Transport Action Group [STAG] The Government of Gibraltar is calling for cross-party cooperation to improve the road network in Gibraltar and promote sustainable transportation solutions.
STAG representatives have met with Dr John Cortes, Transport Minister, and GSD MP Giovanni Origo over the past two week to discuss how they can work together in implementing initiatives for road safety and pollution reduction, as well as creating a more pedestrian-friendly and healthier environment.
STAG stated that both MPs have expressed their support to a number initial initiatives presented by STAG.
UPPER TOWN SHARED SPACE
STAG acknowledged Upper Town Roads were important arteries that many residents used to get home, and that there was limited parking available in the region.
The group also said that the safety of pedestrians was “hugely compromised” when some drivers did not adhere to the speed limit of 20km/h on these roads.
The roads in the city have plenty of space for parking but they lack adequate pavements.
STAG explained that “the proposal is to maintain access and parking but make vehicle drivers aware of pedestrians’ priority in these areas.”
“The message to convey is that these routes no longer are roads. They are shared spaces with a clear hierarchy: pedestrians come first, then bicycles, and finally all other vehicles.”
We recommend immediate, low-cost solutions to communicate the message. These include painted surface signs as well as beautifying an area with planters and furniture.
The message could potentially be reinforced in the near future by using alternative street surfacing. Signage would then be reduced.
TRAFFIC CALMING
Gibraltar is still a place where excessive speeding continues to be a problem, despite 30 km per hour limits in some areas.
STAG suggests that pedestrian crossings be introduced more frequently to slow down traffic and improve accessibility.
The group also said that this would make pedestrian routes more convenient, and encourage people to use active transport instead of driving.
IDLING ENGINES
STAG said that there was more to be achieved to deal with the problems of stationary vehicles, idling motors and idle engines.
Although this practice may be “culturally accepted”, the effects on the environment and health of people are detrimental.
“Hearts must be changed to make this practice unacceptable in every location and at all times,” said the group.
CYCLE LANES
STAG encouraged the community to continue the development of the cycling network.
This would allow all road users to choose an active and safe form of transportation that is good for their health, the environment and also relieves congestion.
It was in this sense that it encouraged the creation of a scheme similar to the UK’s Cycle to Work, which has been running for over 25 years.
STAG stated that there are a number of data that reveal the environmental impact as well as improvements in employee wellbeing, which result in greater effectiveness at the workplace due to increased options for physical activity such as cycling to work.
Tax incentives would encourage employers and employees to purchase a bicycle, or eBike, for travel to/from the workplace.
The Government proposes that, following a survey conducted in the private sector and demonstrating a strong preference for a local plan, it survey the public sector.
STAG wants to encourage companies to use eCargo Bikes to do business by increasing rebates.
It requested that the Government consider allowing eCargo bicycles to be used in pedestrian areas like Main Street, Casemates Square, and Irish Town at all times.
STAG invites all community members to join the Facebook group of STAG for more updates on the progress made with the above initiatives.
