El proceso hacia la movilidad sostenible en Sevilla. Centro histórico, peatones y ciclistas

Abstract

Historic town centres are essential to the functioning of Mediterranean cities. They must therefore be preserved as a valuable part of their heritage, while remaining suitably inhabitable. Otherwise, they become mere theatrical props for tourism and commerce. In order to avoid depopulation, measures must be taken to ensure that the living conditions in historic town centres are duly protected and comparable to those in the rest of the city. In this regard, it is essential to provide the adequate conditions for accessibility and mobility that meet the needs of citizens. The adverse effects of motor vehicle transport need to be controlled and minimized, and kept within environmentally acceptable limits. Fostering pedestrian activity and the use of bicycles helps to lower both air and noise pollution levels, while encouraging a less sedentary lifestyle in the general population, thereby improving public health. Less pollution is also a positive factor in the conservation of historic buildings and architectural monuments. This paper analyses two key aspects of the transformations taking place in Seville: the creation of pedestrian-only zones and the transformation of the city in order to encourage the use of bicycles for mobility. Another issue discussed in lesser detail is the public transport system, whose development plans include enlarging the underground transport system (lines 2, 3 and 4), although works are currently suspended. The case study methodology is based on urban planning and transport planning documents, statistical reports published by the local administration, as well as fieldwork data. It focuses on pedestrian-only areas and some of the unresolved issues of bicycle transport in an urban area which is still dominated by motor vehicle transport. © 2018, Secretaría General Técnica Centro de Publicaciones. All rights reserved.