7.4 Checklist: Function / Form / Usage
Design which is fit for purpose is safer. Urban streets, roads and spaces are always multi-functional.
The functions are either movement or place related. It is important therefore that the designer understands and accommodates the functions applicable to the particular scheme.
The lists below offer an aide-memoire to typical functions encountered in urban areas. Bear in mind that functions can vary at different times of the day or week, e.g. bus lanes, parking weekends etc
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Movement Related Functions (inter alia)
- Pedestrians – walking, crossing
- Cycling
- Vehicular traffic (all modes)
see Road Classification Section 1.6, Traffic Management Guidelines http://www.dto.ie/traffic_manual.pdf - Drop-offs and pick-ups
- Access to property
- Turning
- Abnormal vehicle manoeuvres
- Parking of vehicles and bicycles
- Bus stops – waiting and crossing to and from the bus
- Loading and delivery
- Refuse collection
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Place Related Functions (inter-alia)
- Housing and access
- Parks and open space
- Communication and information points
- ATMs and postal services
- Meeting and gathering
- Play and recreation
- Shops including window display
- Social and community services
- Shelter and public convenience
- Heritage and architectural value
- Services (gas, water, sewerage etc.)