CIHT has launched its review of the controversial issue of shared space and how it is being designed. ‘Creating better streets: Inclusive and accessible places’ provides a series of recommendations to Government and industry on how this complex issue can be further improved and developed.
The recommendations the review makes are aimed at Government, Local Authorities and those professionals who are working to make our highways inclusive, safer and a positive part of the public realm and community around them.
The recommendations include:
- the need for greater awareness to create streets that are inclusive and accessible;
- the development and use of a framework of objectives and outcomes for the basis of street design;
- the need to replace the use of shared space as a concept with different design approaches;
- the need for detailed research into the needs of all users and around specific design features;
- the review of existing guidance and the development of new guidance to assist local authorities in producing better street design;
- and, consideration of amending legislation in certain areas.
Many shared space schemes have attracted criticism from disabled people and their organisations. In undertaking the review, CIHT has worked to the principle that street design needs to meet the requirements of all users so that inclusive environments are created.
Lord Holmes of Richmond has undertaken research highlighting the impact of shared space on disabled people and others. Speaking about the launch of the report he said:
“I congratulate the CIHT on taking the issue of accessibility and inclusion in the public realm seriously and making this report happen. I am delighted that the recommendations include ensuring that local authorities understand their duties with regard to the Equality Act and also recognise that: greater awareness, better training, more research and improved guidance are all needed.
I’m also delighted that the report concludes - regarding crossings - that “there should be sufficient provision for all users to cross the carriageway safely and in comfort” and - regarding kerbs - that the separation between carriageway and footway “should be clearly delineated and detectable by all”. It is essential that all our public spaces are safe, inclusive places for us all to enjoy.”
Imtac welcomes the publication of the report and looks forward to the response from Government. Copies of the report can be downloaded here.