My Journey, Sustrans and the University of Southampton join forces to transform Southampton’s streets

My Journey, Sustrans and the University of Southampton have teamed up to change the face of Sholing’s streets. The initiative is part of the EU Metamorphosis Project which aims to transform car-oriented neighbourhoods into child-friendly spaces.

Following a series of workshops in April and June, pupils, parents and guardians and staff from Valentine Primary school, as well as local residents, had the opportunity to put their ideas into practice and redesign Valentine Avenue in a temporary road closure on Friday 22 June. The road has been identified by local residents as a safety concern due to the large number of cars entering the road at school drop off and pick up times. Coinciding with Valentine Primary’s Summer Fayre, the road closure took place from 1pm – 5pm and was the perfect opportunity for the community’s children to enjoy free rein of the roads and get creative.

Armed with chalk spray, they took to the street to design colourful crossings and decorate the carriageways with different patterns including fish, shells and many more. Families were also able to enjoy giant games and Bike Doctor sessions held by Monty’s Bike Hub.

Temporary seating, urban furniture and planting were also trialled during the closure and will remain in place for a month in a bid to make the street more attractive and safer for children and to encourage greater levels of active travel amongst residents. Parents and local residents were able to give their views on the trial by voting on a sketch of the proposed changes. They were also asked to take part in a survey asking for their comments on issues around crossing and other concerns.