Low-traffic schemes ‘bring health gain of up to 100 times their cost.

The Guardian reports that public health benefits of policies promoting walking and cycling, including low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs), are up to 100 times greater than their cost, according to a long-term study. The research, led by Prof Rachel Aldred of Westminster University, observed people in outer London boroughs with LTNs or similar initiatives for six years. The study found the cumulative public health benefit per local adult, due to increased physical activity, could reach as much as £4,800 over 20 years.