Challenges facing Local Authorities

New streets and public places can be designed with accessibility issues in mind.  It is pre-existing sites that present particular challenges to authorities.  

Challenges facing Local Authorities

New streets and public places can be designed with accessibility issues in mind. It is pre-existing sites that present particular challenges to authorities.

Historically, the needs of the disabled have been a low priority and many of the established towns and city centres contain labyrinths of ancient narrow streets, with cobbled surfaces, steep gradients and uneven steps. Designers and Town Planners need to be innovative in order to provide universal access to these sites, whilst still preserving their authenticity and aesthetic value.

People with mobility difficulties, such as the elderly and wheelchair users, are often foremost in a designer's mind, when considering accessibility issues. However, it is also important not to overlook the needs of people with sensory or cognitive impairment. Design features which make it easier for people to work out where they are and where they are going, are especially helpful to disabled people.