Why cities need to take road space from cars - and how this could be done

Cities need to become more liveable. Urban transport systems have great importance in achieving this goal. Currently, cities are dominated by individual motorized transport with associated problems of air pollution, congestion, noise and traffic injuries. This paper argues that the redistribution of space is key in achieving modal split change and the greening of urban environments. It holds that taking road space from cars is justified from social, health, environmental and economic viewpoints. Yet, any change in urban transport cultures has to consider the automobile, which has instrumental as well as symbolic and affective functions. City planners are advised never to argue against the car, and to frame change in ways that reduces resistance by drivers and automotive lobbies.