We can learn from Turin
GREG STARKEY: In early August my wife and I spent a week in Turin. Prior to going there neither of us were supporters of the Yarwood’s “no cars in the CBD” mantra but I must say Turin convinced us otherwise (see No comparison with Turin, from InDaily, September 3, 2013).
In Turin we would walk an area about the size of East Tce to King William and North Terrace to Wakefield St with shops, restaurants, plazas and museums. It was easy and pleasant. Why? Because you did not contend with noisy traffic. Even buses are mostly restricted to the outside perimeter. This wasn’t about the need for subways or even trams – it was about people actually getting out and walking somewhere or riding a bike.
I think we would all benefit from getting back to a lifestyle that involves some walking – we should not expect to catch a bus outside our office or park outside a shop. Making part of the CBD a place where people want to walk, shop, eat and spend time should not be lost in the argument over car park taxes. It will make the city centre a more unique experience then spending time inside a suburban shopping mall. Forget about the car park tax.
A simple first pedestrian-friendly initiative would be to close on weekends the section of North Terrace between Kintore Ave and the new David Jones car park. This would not even impact parking but would connect the Art Gallery, Museum, University and Rundle Mall as a pedestrian plaza free of car and bus noise. Park the food vans there; get a real market happening. ‘What about the buses’ you say – well sorry people, you will have to walk to King William or Pulteney St to catch them. For me, eventually, it would be great to see North Terrace closed at East Tce and King William St serviced only by electric trams from car parking at the old Adelaide hospital site.
You might like
Send us letters: Email us at [email protected], including your full name. The editor reserves the right to edit letters.
Or join the discussion on our Facebook page.
Want to see more stories from InDaily SA in your Google search results?
- Click here to set InDaily SA as a preferred source.
- Tick the box next to "InDaily SA". That's it.
