Laneways and Alleys

Laneways, also known as alleys, are narrow streets that add to the diversity of the overall public space network, supporting the fine grain character of a city. Often retrofitted from old service lanes, commercial laneways provide opportunities to create new front doors to forgotten spaces, prioritize pedestrians, and add vibrant spaces to a neighborhood. Laneways can work as a network for pedestrians to navigate the city and build an overall identity for the city center.¹

Cities around the world have been transforming their laneways from back alleys filled with trucks and delivery vans to new front-facing active edges, creating inviting spaces for locals and visitors.

Footnotes

^{1. Bate, Weston, Essential but unplanned: the story of Melbourne’s lanes (Melbourne: City of Melbourne and State Library of Victoria, 1994)</sup}

Adapted by Global Street Design Guide published by Island Press.