Home zone

[4] In 1925 Nancy Astor MP noted in the Commons that "There is no more pitiable sight in life than a child which has been arrested for playing in the street".

[6] The same act introduced the concept of the Quiet Lane which allows similar social uses in rural roads,[14] following pilot projects in Kent and Norfolk.

Home zones often involved the use of shared space, where the street is not strongly divided into exclusive pedestrian and traffic areas.

Providing a clear route for pedestrians that is kept free of traffic, by using street furniture for example, is one way of meeting the needs of the visually impaired.

Well-designed home zones often include features such as benches, tables and play equipment to encourage social interaction.

Most contemporary UK schemes have involved public realm works to existing streets in older Victorian housing areas, often to meet regeneration or traffic calming objectives.