A successful campaign for safe streets and roads takes time to build a case, identify the changes, develop networks and persuade those with the power to make changes. Action Vision Zero provides resources and one-to-one support for every step of this process. So please get in touch.
Build a case
Use data to demonstrate the impact road danger is having on a community. Count the casualties on local roads and assess how far safety is improving or getting worse. Are speeds high? What is the air quality like? Is it noisy?
Create a story. It is also a good idea to create some kind of document that sets out your demands.
Action Vision Zero has a wealth of data to help campaigners reveal the severity of road danger where they live. Start with our Data page to reveal the number of casualties by mode and severity on roads where you live. But Action Vision Zero can also help you delve further into the data to build a case for change. Please contact us for free support.
Identify changes
Action Vision Zero has identified six key areas that are critical for delivering real and continued reduction in casualties. These are:
- safe speeds
- safe junctions and crossings
- safe space for cycling
- less traffic
- safe vehicles
- safe behaviours and enforcement
Use our checklist to find out how far your highway authority is implementing these policies. We have produced a slightly different policy checklist for London boroughs where some elements are under the control of Transport for London.
If you live in London, you can also use the London Boroughs Healthy Streets Scorecard to assess how your London borough stands in relation to eight key indicators for healthy, active streets.
Develop networks
Change cannot happen unless a whole community is asking for it. Talk to neighbours, residents’ and tenants’ associations and build a coalition of like-minded supporters. This might include cycling, walking, public transport, local amenity, air quality, environment, road safety and disability campaigners. Some useful links can be found here.
Make change happen
- Set up a local Action Vision Zero group and build a network. We can help with this, so contact us.
- Launch the campaign and make the group known with a press release. We have a template here.
- Create a petition. Here’s one we made earlier.
- Now write to your councillor to tell them about the anger and frustration and to call for an Vision Zero Action Plan. Here is a template letter.
- Encourage councillors to introduce a motion to adopt Vision Zero at a full council meeting. Here is our template motion.
- Set up a meeting with elected representatives. Local councillors will help you approach the Cabinet Member in charge of transport. Getting support of GLA members is helpful when dealing with TfL-managed roads.
Contact us for free one-to-one advice and support on all these steps. We can help identify issues in your local area; advise on how to communicate a campaign; raise issues with councils, councillors and MPs; speak at meetings; and connect with activists and groups.
And if you need anything that is not available here, please let us know!