Transport to become more accessible for disabled people

Frank Salt and his guide dog Lewis

Transport is set to become more accessible for disabled people, due to the government’s Inclusive Transport Strategy which was published on Wednesday (25 July).

The strategy aims to create a transport system offering equal access by 2030 with improvements pledged, such as £2million to install audio-visual equipment on bus services across Britain for route and stop information and pause the development of shared space schemes.

Audio-visual announcements on buses are essential for passengers with sight loss. The government made changes to the law to make sure that all buses would be Talking Buses

Shared spaces are dangerous for people with impaired vision as they are areas where the kerb is removed, meaning pedestrians, cars and cyclists share the same surface.

The government has recommended that local authorities pause developing such schemes.

Castleton guide dog owner Frank Salt, who is an active campaigner on these issues, commented: “The audio announcements on buses is a great advance, not only for blind passengers, but all who use buses in areas they are not familiar with.  

“I am not aware of any ‘shared spaces’ schemes in Rochdale and am sure that our council will take note of this rethink on shared spaces, which are extremely dangerous to myself and Lewis, my guide dog.”