Low-emission zone study

Summary

Rethymno will study how low emission zone strategies can relieve areas which are negatively affected by heavy congestion and how to shape future policies for the introduction of car-free zones in the historic city centre.

Implementing sustainable mobility

Rethymno is developing a strategic study for a car-free zone in the historic city centre and low emission zones in other areas of the municipality. The study will be linked to the SUMP and propose interventions and regulation changes to be integrated into future transportation policies, incorporating the results of a consultation with regional and local urban planners, Rethymno's PT operator and other mobility actors.

The main objectives of the measure are:

• to introduce policies for a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) as part of efforts to move towards becoming a more liveable city. The LEZ will aim to limit private car access, create traffic calming zones and shared space, and promote low-emission vehicles in the city centre.
• to assess the social and economic impacts of implementing LEZs on the surrounding area and local businesses.
• to define new efficient parking regulations.
• to improve air quality in the historic centre.
• to actively involve citizens and stakeholders in the decision-making process.

The main actions planned are:

• The development of a strategic study for a car-free zone in the historic city centre and LEZ around the municipality.
• The study will include an assessment of the social and economic impacts of restricting access to the surrounding area, parking capacity, alternative transport modes, introducing a new circular bus lane, the location of taxi parks, and new regulations and provisions for improving safety and accessibility for and limiting the negative impact on vulnerable road user groups.
• A public consultation involving residents, businesses operating in the area, and those who would be affected by the restrictions.

Progress

The activities implemented so far are:   

• Assignment of the strategic study for car free zones in the historic city centre to the National Technical University of Athens.
• Development of Low Emission Zones study in the municipal area (on-going); Initial consultations were performed.

Outcomes

The outcomes of the measure include:

• A strategic study for the implementation of car-free zones in the historic city centre.
• Recommendations for new access and parking regulations and on the redesign of public spaces, to be incorporated in future development policies.