Report of the working group on pedestrian and cycling zones

The working group drew up a description of the Finnish traffic regulations, road signs and possible problems concerning pedestrian precincts and other types of streets meant for non-motorised transport. It also outlined the situation in certain European countries. On the basis of the description the working group presented two alternative plans to review the traffic regulations and road signs on pedestrian and cycling zones. The working group was of the opinion that the nature of pedestrian and cycling zones should be better considered in the rules applying to these streets. The same rules for both pedestrians and vehicle drivers are poorly adaptable in the current situation. The road sign combinations may also be difficult to understand and are bad for the city image. The working group decided to present two alternatives. The first would review the traffic regulations of a residential precinct so that it would be possible to use the road sign "residential precinct" also on pedestrian and cycling zones as well as on such streets in city centres that are primarily used by pedestrians but meant for all road users. The second alternative proposes to introduce a new road sign indicating a zone for pedestrians and cyclists. It would be adapted to Finnish conditions through a definition in the traffic regulations. In both alternatives, pedestrians would be entitled to use the whole zone and vehicle traffic would take place on their terms. The traffic regulations would restrict parking only to specifically marked areas and municipalities would have the authority to punish for incorrect parking. The speed limit and give way rules would also be included in the regulations; cyclists and pedestrians would have to give way to other traffic when joining a street from a pedestrian and cycling zone. The proposed changes would require amendments to the road traffic legislation. The instructions by the Association of Finnish Local and Regional Authorities and the Finnish Road Administration should be reviewed too. This report is available at http://www.mintc.fi