Introduction
As already reported in the media, access within the City, for disabled people, was recently criticised during an official pre City of Culture three-day assessment process. Local Authority officers have also noted that they received very low marks for ‘disabled peoples access’ in their Best Value analysis.
Newcastle Disability Forum has compiled this document in response to frequent and ongoing complaints from disabled people, their carers and other pathway users, which show that they continually experience difficulties in negotiating and navigating the public pathways safely within the City.
There is much evidence, as illustrated in some of the photographs printed below, that the lack of forethought and proper planning in the past has resulted in a hazardous and inaccessible environment for Newcastle residents and visitors alike.
To avoid the illustrated difficulties various procedures are suggested throughout the report.
In addition
to removing the types of hazards faced by disabled people and
other pathway users, any positive actions taken will greatly
enhance Newcastle and Gateshead’s bid for City of Culture
2008.