The charity Guide Dogs has called on the Government to end dangerous street schemes, which it claims are making some town centres ‘no-go zones’.
The third sector group said there should be a moratorium on new shared-surface schemes, where kerbs and pedestrian crossing points are often removed, until new guidance is issued to ensure they are safe for all pedestrians.
Guide Dogs has also published details of a new survey, which shows seven out of 10 people feel they are put in danger by shared-surface schemes.
The survey echoes separate research by YouGov, which shows two thirds (66%) of people who live in cities believe traditional street designs are safer.
‘Imagine you are walking through a town centre and couldn’t tell where it was safe to walk or cross the road,’ said senior campaign manager, James White.
‘It’s a frightening experience that many of our guide dog owners face when forced to use shared-surface schemes.
‘It makes some town centres no-go zones and stop people doing everyday things, such as going to the shops or visiting family and friends,’ added Mr White.
The charity has also called on the Government to issue clear and up-to-date guidance on accessibility to local authorities, and recommended it makes sure disabled people are formally engaged at the beginning of the planning process when street designs are being considered.
It has also released a video, which warns of the dangers of shared-surface schemes.
