Oddbean new post about login | logout Being in that space, it feels too big. There isn't enough traffic for four lanes most of the time - two would be fine. There's a huge amount of car parking. While space for pedestrians/cyclists is generous, it's all about keeping people away from cars. https://cdn.masto.host/urbanistssocial/media_attachments/files/111/025/667/443/020/438/original/ff79504eedd965c2.png
So two things happen. 1. There isn't - can't be - a high enough density of people to make it feel busy. Despite lots of restaurants, hotels and bars, it never feels nice a place you want to spend time in. 2. Because the area covered by roads and public space is high compared to the area covered by buildings, the council is getting less revenue (from business rates etc.) that needs to stretch further in maintaining all this public realm.
It's noticeable in places like the square in front of the station. It feels like some communist regime built it, then someone else thought it could do with a few plants and benches. I've no real thoughts on what could be done about it - would be interested in idea. /END https://cdn.masto.host/urbanistssocial/media_attachments/files/111/025/675/322/454/422/original/90990e0e48b24fff.png
