We find it insulting to the intelligence and memory of those residents who attended public meetings where the words “shared space” were used to describe the new crossings at the Regent Circus development that council officers are now denying that these crossings are a shared space area.
We find it insulting to the intelligence and memory of those residents who attended public meetings where the words “shared space” were used to describe the new crossings at the Regent Circus development that council officers are now denying that these crossings are a shared space area.
The above picture of the sign, that has since been removed from the crossing by Swindon Borough Council after complaints were made about the suitibility of a shared space crossing, clearly indicates that it was originally created as a shared space crossing despite these recent denials at a public meeting by Council officers.
The logic of the crossing design is based on ambiguity and results in confusion for those who are using the crossing. There is enough difficulty in the world for the blind, partially sighted and disabled without this disregard of their needs. We know from statements from participants in the crossing review that the council were told of the difficulties. According to equality representatives this means 20% of Swindon’s population are disadvantaged by this set of crossings.
Via legislation and role, the Conservative council are responsible for ensuring equality through Policy. Your ward councillors have pressed for safety improvements but have been informed there will be no more improvements. We will continue to act to address this unfair treatment with representative groups and the Equalities Commission.
This article was updated on 17/04/2015 to clarify that the "shared space" sign pictured was removed from the crossing.