Active Travel Pilots Accessibility to Disabled People 2021-06-24
2021-06-24
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The issue concerns the accessibility of pilot schemes designed to promote cycling and other forms of active travel. The question arises from a concern that these initiatives may not adequately accommodate individuals with disabilities.
What steps he is taking to ensure that all active travel pilots are fully accessible to disabled people?
Local authorities are responsible for ensuring active travel schemes are accessible to all. Government guidance, which includes the “Cycle Infrastructure Design” publication, reflects best practice in safety and inclusivity for disabled pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair and Motability scooter users.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not provide specific steps or commitments beyond general guidance on accessibility, avoiding a direct commitment to ensure full accessibility of all pilot schemes.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The concern is that the government's pilot schemes for e-scooters and other forms of active travel do not mandate accessibility formats, potentially excluding disabled and older individuals from these initiatives.
The Government are rolling out a number of pilots for e-scooters and also supporting with funding a number of schemes to expand active travel, yet those schemes do not need to have accessible formats of travel for disabled people and older people, further excluding them from the benefits of active travel and moving around in car-free environments. Will the Minister ensure that every pilot scheme is expanded so that it is fully accessible? Will he also challenge the sector to provide Motability scooters and other forms of e-travel that are fully accessible for everyone in our communities?
It is very important that local authorities consider the impacts of e-scooters on people with disabilities and allow them to access the trials as well. E-scooters have the potential to offer additional means of transport, and we allowed seated e-scooters within the scope of the trials to enable people with certain mobility issues to use them. Our guidance told local authorities to encourage groups representing the interests of disabled people in their areas to advise people with accessibility issues on how they can best use the schemes.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not commit to ensuring full accessibility for all pilot schemes and instead refers to existing guidance that encourages local authorities to take voluntary steps.
Response accuracy