Shared space is an
urban design approach which seeks to minimize the segregation of
pedestrians and
vehicles. This is done by removing features such as
curbs,
road surface markings,
traffic signs, and
traffic lights. It has been suggested that, by creating a greater sense of uncertainty and making it unclear who has priority, drivers will reduce their speed. This is conducive to a safer environment for both pedestrians and vehicles. Shared space schemes are often motivated by a desire to reduce the dominance of vehicles, vehicle speeds, and road casualty rates.