A study from the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) has analyzed which city layouts offer potential for implementing so-called Superblocks. This approach to urban planning can challenge heat, noise and air pollution, as well as dwindling green spaces caused by climate change or population growth. Urban planning is a crucial factor, according to study author Sven Eggimann in a statement from Empa. “The design and use of street space influences the residents' quality of life and has the potential to significantly improve urban climate,” he said.
Barcelona is a role model for Superblocks. The Spanish city’s Superblock consists of 3x3 city blocks and their courtyards, each separated by outer streets. Traffic is redirected around the Superblock so that the streets are free from through-traffic. Instead of roads and parking spaces, there are bicycle- and footpaths, green spaces and pedestrian zones. There are also heat-mitigation measures in place.
Eggimann describes the potential of this city model as so great because streets in today's urban areas account for a significant share of the total area. In European cities, the share of streets typically lies between 15 and 25 per cent, according to the statement. Eggimann’s findings suggest that Superblock potential ranges from a few per cent to more than a third of the streets in a city that could be redesigned, with the greatest potential in cities including Mexico City, Madrid and Tokyo.
However, cities with a less grid-like street layout than Barcelona would also be suitable for Superblocks, according to Eggimann’s study. “This presents an opportunity to make urban neighborhoods more attractive by focusing on people rather than vehicles,” he said.
