Publica was commissioned by Westminster City Council (WCC) and Transport for London to undertake a detailed study of the streets of Soho and to suggest how future public realm improvements might be undertaken, in order to help inform decision making.

Soho is a complex area that is alive 24 hours a day. It is also a living neighbourhood with a mix of complex uses both at street level and on the floors above, and the public realm needs to work for residents, businesses and visitors alike. Major developments at its edges will also change how people move through Soho.

The Soho Public Realm Study aims to firstly understand the unique conditions in this very special and intricate neighbourhood.

Publica carried out a series of detailed street and context surveys, supported by additional movement data and analysis by WSP, creating detailed mapping of use, character and street life. We reviewed findings with stakeholders from across the area and the issues and opportunities raised in these conversations formed a key part of the analysis and are reflected in the recommendations.

Based on our extensive surveys, analysis and consultation, Publica summarised key observations for the area, identifying issues, opportunities and future challenges, in order to make suggestions for the improvement of pedestrian movement, materials, accessibility and cycling provision across the area’s 11km of streets and alleyways.

The Soho Public Realm Study provides a coherent and principle-led framework for incremental improvements to the streets and spaces of Soho whilst maintaining its highly valued character.

Publica was commissioned by Westminster City Council (WCC) and Transport for London to undertake a detailed study of the streets of Soho and to suggest how future public realm improvements might be undertaken, in order to help inform decision making.

Soho is a complex area that is alive 24 hours a day. It is also a living neighbourhood with a mix of complex uses both at street level and on the floors above, and the public realm needs to work for residents, businesses and visitors alike. Major developments at its edges will also change how people move through Soho.

The Soho Public Realm Study aims to firstly understand the unique conditions in this very special and intricate neighbourhood.

Publica carried out a series of detailed street and context surveys, supported by additional movement data and analysis by WSP, creating detailed mapping of use, character and street life. We reviewed findings with stakeholders from across the area and the issues and opportunities raised in these conversations formed a key part of the analysis and are reflected in the recommendations.

Based on our extensive surveys, analysis and consultation, Publica summarised key observations for the area, identifying issues, opportunities and future challenges, in order to make suggestions for the improvement of pedestrian movement, materials, accessibility and cycling provision across the area’s 11km of streets and alleyways.

The Soho Public Realm Study provides a coherent and principle-led framework for incremental improvements to the streets and spaces of Soho whilst maintaining its highly valued character.