Many New Zealanders will know Las Ramblas, one of the most pleasant streets in the world in one of the finest cities in the world, Barcelona. The Rambla, as English speaking tourists call it, is a tree-lined boulevard with fine buildings and alleys disappearing to its side, and a variety of street entertainment, different in every block.
It is always thronged with people.
It was a prime target for vehicle terrorism of the type seen in Nice last year, then Berlin, Westminster, London Bridge and now in Barcelona.
These are just of dozens of random acts of terrorism committed with a vehicle but each one causes a shudder at the ease with which it can be done. No explosives are required, no elaborate plans to plant a bomb, no suicide vests and volunteers for martyrdom. Just an ordinary van and a driver determined to run amok.
Cities are doing their best to guard against them. It is now common to see bollards strategically placed at the entrance to pedestrian precincts in central cities the world over. Many other barriers are disguised or designed so well they look like street furniture. But they will be solid enough to stop a motor vehicle.