Driven to excess - impacts of motor vehicle traffic on residential quality of life in Bristol, UK

This study investigated the specific impacts of traffic on quality of life within a residential area of Bristol, UK, through a replication of research by D Appleyard into the effect of traffic on neighbourhood social interaction. Primary data were collected through observations and a series of interviews with 60 households on three streets with varying levels of traffic in one neighbourhood in North Bristol. The results showed that the number of friends and acquaintances on a residential street, as well as the extent of individuals' 'home territory' tend to decrease as vehicle traffic increases. Other notable outcomes from the research included the finding that the frequency of stationary, street-based recreational activities is reduced as traffic flow increases, and that individuals' perception of the safety of their neighbourhood may be disproportionately influenced by the amount of traffic on their street of residence, especially affecting the degree of independence granted to children. Policy solutions to the issues raised are presented.

• Authors:
  • HART, J
• Publication Date: 2008-4

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: 122p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Children; Externalities; Noise; Policy; Pollution; Residential areas; Traffic; Traffic congestion; Traffic control; Traffic flow; Urban areas
• Uncontrolled Terms: Quality; Traffic relief
• Geographic Terms: United Kingdom
• Subject Areas: Finance; Operations and Traffic Management; Policy; I15: Environment; I72: Traffic and Transport Planning;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01125225
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: TRL
• Files: ITRD
• Created Date: Mar 30 2009 6:53AM