#StreetsForAll Phase 2: Inaccessible street designs
Many local authorities are redesigning their streets to accommodate more pedestrians and cyclists. New shared spaces, increased cycle lanes and outdoor seating areas, however, are acting as physical barriers to blind and partially sighted pedestrians. Many of these changes are being implemented with little consultation and they are not being communicated effectively to disabled people. We are campaigning for accessible streets for all.
We are calling on local authorities to commit to our pledge to ensure street redesigns are inclusive and accessible for everyone.
Our pledge asks local councils to:
- Seek guidance from sight loss organisations and blind and partially sighted people on highways schemes at the design stage.
- Communicate changes on highways schemes in an accessible way to make sure that blind and partially sighted people can understand the implications of alterations in their neighbourhoods.
- Carry out Equality Impact Assessments on highways schemes to evaluate whether the proposed changes are safe and appropriate for disabled pedestrians.
As part of our #StreetsForAll campaign, Thomas Pocklington Trust and Sight Loss Councils would like as many people affected by outdoor seating as possible to complete our short survey. Whether you are blind or partially sighted, use a mobility aid or wheelchair, have a mobility scooter or a pram or buggy for young children, please complete our survey and share with others.
