Bristol City Council has launched a public consultation regarding proposed transport changes in the city centre, aimed at creating a more accessible and vibrant urban environment. The consultation, running from August 12 to September 30, 2024, is part of a broader City Centre Development and Delivery Plan designed to accommodate a growing population and enhance the city’s infrastructure. However, it’s crucial that these changes are examined closely from the perspective of Disabled people, ensuring that the city’s evolution includes everyone.
Overview of Proposed Changes
The key aspects of the proposal include:
Pedestrianisation: Expanding pedestrian-only zones, particularly in Broadmead, with additional landscaping, seating, and cultural spaces.
Rapid Transit Service: Introducing a new “red route” rapid transit service through the city centre, intended to streamline public transportation and reduce traffic congestion.
Bus Rerouting: Altering bus routes to support pedestrianisation efforts and ensure that public transport remains efficient and accessible.
Cycle and Walking Routes: Significant investments in protected cycle lanes and improved walking routes, intended to encourage more active transport options.
The proposals also involve changes to parking, particularly a reduction in on-street parking spaces, with specific adjustments to Disabled parking and loading zones. While these changes aim to reduce car dependency, they must be carefully balanced to avoid creating new barriers for Disabled people.
Concerns from a Disability Equality Perspective
Accessibility of Public Transport: The rerouting of buses and the introduction of a rapid transit system are central to the plan. However, it’s vital that these changes do not reduce the accessibility of public transport for Disabled people. While the proposal states that all bus services will remain within a five-minute walk of key locations like Broadmead, this distance may still present challenges for some. Moreover, the removal of bus stops from pedestrian areas might inadvertently limit access for Disabled people who rely on these services.
Pedestrianisation and Mobility: Pedestrianising more areas can create safer and more pleasant environments, but these changes must include considerations for Disabled people who use mobility aids. Smooth, step-free routes are essential, and care must be taken to avoid creating obstacles such as excessive street furniture or poorly placed seating that could impede wheelchair users.
Impact on Disabled Parking: The consultation acknowledges a net increase in Disabled parking spaces from 47 to 67 in the Broadmead area. However, the removal and relocation of existing spaces could cause confusion and inconvenience if not properly communicated and executed. Ensuring these new spaces are in convenient locations, with clear signage and easy access to key destinations, is crucial.
Communication and Involvement: The consultation process includes outreach efforts like drop-in events, mail drops, and specific meetings with key stakeholders, including WECIL. This is an important step, but it’s essential that the voices of Disabled people are not only heard but actively shape the final proposals. The Access Audit by WECIL’s WAIT team will be critical in this regard, ensuring that the proposals are scrutinised through the lens of accessibility.
Moving Forward
Bristol’s ambition to create a greener, more people-friendly city centre is commendable, but it is essential that the needs of Disabled people are fully integrated into these plans. The success of these changes will depend on how well they serve all residents, particularly those who face the most significant mobility challenges. As the consultation progresses, it will be vital for Disabled people and their advocates to engage actively and ensure that the city’s evolution is inclusive.
It is vital that as many Disabled people as possible participate in this consultation so that a wide range of perspectives contribute to the final plan. To do this, or to learn more about the proposed changes, visit the Bristol City Council website here.
