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Despite their prominence in online conspiracy theories, there is no clear evidence yet of how widespread offline opposition to 15-minute neighbourhoods actually is.
The concept of ‘15-minute neighbourhoods’ is closely related to that of clean air zones and liveable neighbourhoods. They aim to ensure people can access amenities within a 15-minute walk, rather than requiring a car journey or the use of public transport.
A long-established urban planning concept, they rose in popularity during Covid 19 when movement for many was restricted and conversations focused on how life might change post-pandemic. Through association with the restrictions in movement required by ‘lockdowns’, the 15-minute neighbourhood concept became the focus of online conspiracy theories.
These have led to protests in some cities (including notably in Oxford in 2022, where the introduction of traffic filters was falsely claimed to be a way to keep residents within 15-minute distances from their homes), and elements of the conspiracy theories were endorsed by some Conservative commentators during the 2023 Conservative Party Conference.
There is now clear evidence of disinformation being spread online around 15-minute neighbourhoods. However, there is no clear sense yet of how widespread opposition to 15-minute neighbourhoods is away from online debates. A YouGov survey from early 2023 found that most people would like their area to become a 15-minute neighbourhood, with banks and GP surgeries the most desired amenities that are currently not available within 15 minutes’ walk for most Britons.
In a new guide focused on promoting necessary changes to urban transport policies – whether clean air zones or low traffic neighbourhoods – ACT Climate Labs draw on insights (including from Britain Talks Climate) to provide guidance on how to connect on transport without turning it into a culture war.
Making sense of public opinion on clean air zones
Public opinion on clean air zones and liveable neighbourhoods can sometimes appear to be contradictory. If clean air zones acquire the reputation of being unpopular, this is likely to prevent the ‘quiet majority’ who support them from making their own voices heard.