Visit any city or town in the UK and chances are there will be pedestrian wayfinding signs to assist with navigation. Despite being targeted at pedestrians, it’s the existing road structure that provides the framework for the design of any maps. Where footpaths are included, these tend use traditional map design conventions.  Appearing as discrete dotted lines that can struggle to compete with the bold outlines given to the roads.  Subtle design cues may differentiate a main road from a side street – which can help with making judgements in route choices. Some also include average walking time estimates within varying diameters. However, I’m yet to find an example of a town/city centre wayfinding map, that can truly claim to put pedestrians first. By offering guidance on the quality of different route options from a safety and or attractiveness perspective.

If we’re to prioritise walking and cycling over cars within our urban landscape, we also need to rethink how we design pedestrian maps. Clearly roads provide very visible landmarks and have a critical role in pedestrian wayfinding. But there must be ways of Increasing the visibility of safe, attractive and or vehicle-free pedestrian and cycling routes (to help us make more qualitative choices – beyond the shortest route from A to B), without compromising the legibility of the information.

No doubt many of our wayfinding colleagues are exploring this challenge too, so would be great to see examples. And for anyone responsible for the active transport strategy – you might want to consider including wayfinding information in the mix. After all, the more enjoyable an experience, the more likely someone is to repeat and seek out similar. Not only that, focussing attention on highlighting pedestrian and cycling friendly routes, might also help identify gaps or opportunities for improvements.