Rugby Observer Thursday 25th November 2004
Audit highlights access shortfalls
A INVESTIGATION into access in Rugby town centre has revealed more than 230 problems.
An audit carried out by an independent consultant during the spring unearthed 234 issues for the disabled, people with prams and elderly people in 22 streets.
The borough council ordered the investigation ahead of the Disability Discrimination Act which came fully into effect in October.
To make the town accessible the report states pavements must be made even and be at least 1.8meteres wide, well lit and free of obstructions such as bollards.
It suggests bus stops are placed close to care homes and day centres, and be no more than 400 metres apart. The audit also recommends big signage, raised bus-boarding kerbs and, where possible, bus shelters.
Car parking should be available no more than 50 metres away from shops if the distance is uncovered and no more than 100 metres if covered.
Clear signage with minimal text and less use of blues, greens and reds – which are not always recognized by the visually impaired – is also recommended by the report.
Responsibility for 35 of the issues such as information panels, street furniture and bins falls with the borough council and the rest, such as pavements and bus shelters, need to be addressed by Warwickshire County Council.
The cost of the improvements is unknown and neither the borough or county councils have yet to decide exactly when the issues will be addressed.