Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) Sunday unveiled new street design standards in line with the Capital 2030 plan which, when implemented, will make Abu Dhabi roads friendlier for pedestrians, transit users, cyclists and motorists.
The Urban Street Design Manual will be showcased at Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2010 to be held from April 18 to 21.
"The design manual is already under implementation," a UPC official told Gulf News by telephone.
David Dudley, regional director of Jones Lang LaSalle, said the 2030 plan aims to transform many aspects of urban planning in Abu Dhabi, including transport, density of population and land use.
"Improving the urban environment of Abu Dhabi will continue to make it an attractive place to live and work," he added.
"Our new Urban Street Design Manual aspires to establish Abu Dhabi as a model for global mobility underpinned by diversity in movement options, flexibility in destination access, efficiency in time saving and enhancement of livability," said Falah Mohammad Al Ahbabi, UPC's general manager, in a statement.
Public transport
With the introduction of the manual, the UPC aims to reduce the emirate's reliance on personal motorised vehicles by implementing a network of public transport to include high-speed rail and rapid transit options such as trams and buses. Furthermore, a system of new and redesigned streets will emphasise high quality urban design and cater to all modes of transport, making Abu Dhabi a better and safer place to walk, cycle, and take public transport.
The first application of the manual is under way with a redesign of Khalifa Street in Abu Dhabi city centre with construction set to commence this year, said the UPC.
"Other streets across the emirate will also start to employ these updated practices as of today," it added.
The UPC produces plans and development regulations that govern Abu Dhabi's physical environment. The council manages the emirate's urban growth through efficient development review and proactive facilitation of implementation in coordination with its public and private sector partners.
