The City of Sydney has released a draft policy for public comment proposing more inclusive streets and open spaces for everyone, including people with disability, older people and families.
Announced by Lord Mayor Clover Moore, the new policy will guide the design and maintenance of public infrastructure and spaces including footpaths, street furniture, parks, playgrounds and sports fields.
Cr Moore said the draft public domain policy was part of the City’s ongoing commitment to promote inclusion and accessibility across its public spaces as outlined in A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017–2021.
She said the policy guided the design and maintenance of public infrastructure and spaces including footpaths, street furniture, parks, playgrounds and sports fields.
Specific guidance is included for kerb ramps, accessible public toilets, picnic settings and playgrounds in public parks.
She said it also included guidelines for community gardens, footpath gardens and activities such as markets, to ensure these are inclusive and accessible for all people who want to be involved.
Cr Moore said proactive consultation would include workshops run by people with disability for their peers and City-led briefings for industry professionals such as developers and architects.
She said it was vital that open spaces, parks, footpaths and community facilities can be used by everyone, regardless of their ability.
“Creating a welcoming, inclusive city for everyone is one of our top priorities,” Cr Moore said.
“I hope that this policy will further reduce the physical and social barriers for people living with disability to enjoy our city.”
She said the policy was based on Australian accessibility standards and best practice approaches and aimed for a consistent approach while allowing some flexibility for design and environmental factors.
The 17-page draft policy will be on public exhibition until 28 June for community feedback and can be accessed at this PS News link.
