Plans for West End ignore needs of disabled people – this week in Your Views

I agree with Nica Burns (‘Plans to pedestrianise West End will limit access’, July 24, p1), and it’s not just theatre access that is adversely affected. I live in the West End and have a severely disabled son who uses a wheelchair.

Pedestrianisation is a nightmare for disabled residents. It blocks access to homes and makes it harder for taxis or deliveries to reach our flats. Cycle lanes block access to hail taxis in the streets. Every single day, we have to go off the pavement to avoid the bikes, which are littered absolutely everywhere.

Most residents oppose Camden and Westminster’s shortsighted plans, which are slowing traffic and, in reality, concentrating pollution more in specific areas. There are many people in social housing who live and work here with vulnerable people in households. It is not just a theme park for rich tourists. Residents attend consultations and are ignored.

I walk around a great deal pushing my son’s chair. The pedestrianised areas do not help us in any way. We already have lots of gardens and squares to enjoy, and it would be much better if the council protected the wonderful Phoenix Garden from the high-rise development that will block light and endanger plants and wildlife. These plans are usually drawn up by able-bodied cyclists who know little and care less about the character of the area and are hoping to further their careers in “eco” town planning. Disabled people are an inconvenience to them.
Margaret Houston
Via thestage.co.uk

Congratulations on managing to roll out every tired pro-car trope in a single article. Disability does not automatically equate to car dependence and the current, deeply car-centric urban layout is far from accessible.

The article barely masks its bias toward the status quo. Phrases such as “e-scooters and bikes scattered everywhere”, offered without any constructive alternatives, reveal more about the author’s preference for unimpeded car and taxi access than any genuine concern for creating a people-friendly environment.

A truly inclusive city would benefit far more people, including disabled individuals, by prioritising accessible, active and shared transport – not just cars.

Jonathan Keenan
Via thestage.co.uk

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