The business of walking
Tourism boosts local economies and providing for pedestrians is a great way to encourage visitors to see your local area. See promoting walking and providing for pedestrians for advice on what local councils can do to develop pedestrian-friendly facilities. See also benefits of walking for more information.
Walking tours are a fun activity for tourists and locals alike. Tourist offices, community groups and individuals can organise walking tours. Tours are best developed around a theme such as historical sites of interest, gardens or even ghost tours.
Railtrails* are a great facility in many regional areas for recreational walking. Railtrails are multipurpose public paths created from abandoned railway corridors. They make great walking, cycling and horse riding trails that have gentle gradients and are easy to follow. They are a way to experience nature and enjoy scenery not visible from the road.
Pedestrian-friendly businesses
Catering for pedestrians through pedestrian malls and other pedestrian-friendly facilities brings businesses benefits. Quiet areas away from traffic provide opportunities for people to meet and congregate and when people spend more time in an area they are more likely to spend money in that area.
Many businesses underestimate the number of clients who access them on foot, when in fact, pedestrians form a significant part of the customer base of a business. Businesses can attract more pedestrians by providing:
- a delivery service for bulky items or big orders
- a drinking fountain or other access to cold water
- restroom facilities
- space to meet away from traffic
- plants, seats and other street furniture.
Retailers can work together with local councils to ensure good facilities are available for pedestrians and safe routes to shops.
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