On Saturday 16th of August, researchers from the sustainability research group were invited to the opening of the new Superblock test in the St Johann district in Basel. Superblocks started in Barcelona, Spain in 2016, where the city has ambitious plans for the creation of 503 superblocks. These are combinations of up to 9 regular city blocks, in which pedestrians and cyclists have priority. Streets are narrowed to single lanes with speed limits of 20km/h and the place which has been previously taken by cars and parking is greened with raised beds, flower pots and trees. Park benches and playgrounds are plentiful, with the sound of children playing replacing traffic noise and the reduction in emissions also helps to reduce heat island effect. 

The St Johann test superblock inauguration was a huge success with many citizens taking part, celebrating the reclaiming of the streets for the people to use, and it is hoped that this year long test will have a marked effect on local wellbeing. The St Johann superblock is relatively small, but a second test district will be inaugurated in Basel in September in the Matthäus district.

Researchers from the Sustainability Research Group have been providing support throughout the process.