I was interested to read the letter by Paul Hepworth concerning traffic restricted areas (Letters, March 28).
He states that the Department for Transport (DFT) has design techniques which provide appropriate demarcation for blind and partially sighted people in these areas. Included in the DfT recommendations is the option to use shared-use facilities as a last resort. Yet the Guide Dogs For The Blind have undertaken extensive research which demonstrates that blind and partially sighted people only feel safe walking on a pavement with a clearly defined kerb. As a partially sighted person, I certainly find shared-use facilities unnerving and worrying to use.
This leads me to question his further statement, that shared use facilities have been successfully introduced into both British and European cities. What is his evidence that it has been successful for all users? Anecdotal evidence would suggest that some people exclude themselves from using shared-use spaces as they feel it is too risky.
If this is happening then it is to a group of people whose options for shopping and entertainment are already limited by a disability. Is this what we want for York?
Mary Fairbrother, Westminster Road, Clifton, York.
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