This guide introduces a new paradigm for planning and designing urban streets, based on the dual principles of link and place street functions. As a link, a street is designed for users to pass through it as quickly as possible, in order to minimise travel time. As a place, the street is a destination in its own right, where people are encouraged to spend time. The first part of the guide sets out the context in which the guide was developed and is expected to operate, and outlines the the key principles of this new paradigm. The second part sets out an integrated approach to street planning. This involves creating a street plan that defines the intended role of each street, taking into account the characteristics of the whole street network. The street plan is used to guide the design of individual streets. The third part presents a suite of techniques for designing streets in accordance with their role in the street plan. The concluding part of the guide reflects on the implications of the new paradigm, in terms of professional practice and possible future applications. The greatest design challenges lie on the traditional high streets, which combine a high link status with a high place status.
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