Go to any image search and you will find dozens of pictures from Melbourne, Australia of outdoor dining in car free laneways (alleys) though with proper pedestrian access and accessibility. Imagine trying to get through that place in a wheelchair. There is a market for car free spaces anywhere in the world, even in car cultures like Australia. Given an opportunity people vote with their wallets on these things.
Focusing on medieval streets reinforces the idea that modern cities can not have nice places. They often have lots of great spaces which are under utilized or used poorly. Pedestrianizing those under utilized spaces like alleys can revitalize a local economy.
Go to any image search and you will find dozens of pictures from Melbourne, Australia of outdoor dining in car free laneways (alleys) though with proper pedestrian access and accessibility. Imagine trying to get through that place in a wheelchair. There is a market for car free spaces anywhere in the world, even in car cultures like Australia. Given an opportunity people vote with their wallets on these things.
Focusing on medieval streets reinforces the idea that modern cities can not have nice places. They often have lots of great spaces which are under utilized or used poorly. Pedestrianizing those under utilized spaces like alleys can revitalize a local economy.