08.24.10

Legible London walking program

Environmental Graphics, Public Service

The wayfinding system designed by London-based Applied Information Group (AIG) to help make London a world-class walking city, shows what can be achieved with the close collaboration of designers, city transport authorities and city administrative bodies.

Launched in London’s West End, and comprised of street signs, information at bus stops and underground arrival points and printed maps (digital and mobile media are planned for the future), the scheme has since been extended widely across central London and local pilots are being run in three major London areas. AIG formed the idea for Legible London as part of a Central London Partnership project funded by Transport for London (TfL) when a study identified the considerable benefits of walking in the capital: healthier individuals, greater footfall for retail and leisure, environmental benefits, safety for the community and the alleviation of pressure on other transport systems. After a year, research has shown that the prototype had reduced journey times in the area by 16 percent, 85 percent of people think it’s easy to use and 90 percent think it should be rolled out across the capital.

Tim Fendley/Ben Acornley/James Lefrere/Matt Cooper/Ben Gibbs/Simon Hiller/Sam Gullam/Paddy Long/Paul Garratt, designers; Tim Fendley, creative director; Transport for London/New West End Company/London Development Agency/Greater London Authority, clients.

www.appliedinforma ... www.tfl.gov.uk/mic ...