29/08/2017
48 actions to deliver a transport system that works for everyone, including those with disabilities, are proposed by the Dept for Transport in a draft plan to tackle issues relating to all modes of transport and improve access to shared spaces such as streets and pavements.
‘Draft transport accessibility action plan’ reflects the current situation where, despite significant progress, disabled people still make just 62% of the trips made by non-disabled.
It seeks to help bridge this gap and – for the future – ensure that accessibility is addressed at the design and planning stages of transport programmes, including major infrastructure projects such as Crossrail and HS2.
Proposed actions include
- revised guidance encouraging licensing authorities to use their existing powers to require prospective taxi and PHV drivers to complete disability awareness training and crack down on drivers who discriminate against disabled passengers
- a pilot study to explore opportunities to increase the availability and reliability of accessible toilets on trains
- a review of the Blue Badge eligibility scheme to identify how criteria for those with non-physical disability could be applied more consistently across the country
- powers in the Bus Services Act 2017 to require bus operators to provide audio-visual route and next stop announcements on their services
- a consultation on ways to improve experiences for disabled people in airports and on flights
- real world trials to identify how people with impaired mobility can benefit from connected and autonomous vehicles technologies in cars, shuttles and pods