Sticky streets and third places

In addition to opportunities for physical activity, local neighbourhoods, town centres and main streets also play an important role in providing opportunities for social connection. 

Maintaining good social connections is important to support mental health and resulting cardiovascular outcomes through behavioural, psychological and physiological effects. 

Movement networks, and a road user hierarchy that prioritises walking, wheeling, bike riding and use of public transport are important enablers. 

Equally important are the places that allow us to stop, pause, dwell, and linger. These include 'sticky streets' and 'third places'. 

‘Third places’ are those distinct from home (the first place) and work or education (the second place). Third places can include community hubs, local cafes, libraries, parks, community gardens, sporting and recreational facilities, places of worship and other places where community members can connect with others outside of home or work/education. 

'Sticky streets' are spaces and interventions that attract people and create welcoming places for people to sit, enjoy and stay longer in an area. 

Our recent evidence paper 'Good for business' highlights the importance of sticky streets for local economic benefit: 

Walking around, window-shopping or sitting at a café contribute to the vibrancy of town centres. This visible activity can attract others to visit. People are also more likely to slow down, linger and dwell – behaviours that are associated with increased spending, as illustrated by footpath cafés and alfresco dining. 

‘Sticky streets’ initiatives can create vibrancy and help make town centres and main streets busier by enabling existing users to stay longer. ‘Street stickiness’ refers to the qualities that encourage people to pause, interact and spend time. Visually engaging shopfronts, inviting patios and parklets, casual seating, informal food vendors, pop-up stalls and markets, public art and other temporary installations all foster this atmosphere. As public activity builds, it can spill out into adjacent areas, strengthening the case for reclaiming and reallocating space to people walking and shared community use. Over time, this can support the development of flexible spaces for play, rest and work, as well as venues for community celebrations, night markets and street performances. 

There is a universal desire to sit and watch the world go by. Places that provide this opportunity by boosting their attractiveness with walkable streets, laneways and squares can entice more residents and visitors. 

There are many benefits to creating welcoming, attractive local environments that invite people to slow down, stop, pause and simply 'be', including heart health.