One Way Streets for Pedestrians

In an attempt to reduce congestion and improve the ease of movement, Madrid has been testing a new one way system, for pedestrians.

The route is around one of the busiest areas in the city, the Puerta del Sol, which is a magnet for shoppers and tourists wanting to view the Christmas lights, the tree and the area where the New Year will be celebrated.

Both the police and security officers are used to direct pedestrians in the right direction, so as they only move in one way, and avoid collisions.

Friday was the first day of the test which reportedly passed without incident, with just a small number of people protesting. Some traders however were less than happy with the plan, and in particular the lack of signs which tell pedestrians which way they should go.

The municipal authority have said that pedestrians who move the wrong way will not be fined, and signs will be installed on the streets to advise pedestrians of the direction of travel.

The controls will be put in place at weekends, fiestas and busy afternoons.