Concerns have been raised about a new bridge over the waterway in West Park, Long Eaton, with particular emphasis on the proposed access road to the canal.
Speaking about the formal planning application (reference: 1223/0021), a statement from the Accessible Waterways Association said that: "For some reason the design submitted shows steps, which of course will preclude many people from being able to use it."
The statement sent to Erewash Borough Council references Government guidelines which it said state: "Inclusive design requires that the needs of all disabled people are considered from the outset of any transport and pedestrian infrastructure, including maintenance…” and claimed that the steps in the proposed design clearly failed to meet a basic standard.
It continued: "It is not just disabled people that this affects. It is anyone who struggles with steps. This includes people with pushchairs or shopping trolleys and those with maybe temporary mobility issues.
"Although it is not clear from the plans, if a “cycle slope” has been added along one edge, then this can disadvantage many people who may need to walk on that side of the steps for any reason. Similarly, the artist’s impression only shows a handrail on one side of the steps. It is clear that the requirements of those with accessibility needs have not been properly considered.
"This is a short-sighted design which unnecessarily discriminates against sectors of society.
"This new bridge is government funded through the “Levelling Up” fund via the “Towns Fund” in collaboration with the Erewash Borough Council. As such, we are extremely surprised and disappointed that the proposed new access to the canal does not meet modern accessibility standards.
"We would urge Erewash Borough Council to insist that a proper ramped access replaces this ill-conceived set of steps. No-one should be excluded from enjoying and benefiting from the whole of this project."
Supporting its message, Director Tim Clarke said it was notable that in the report that accompanies the plans it is stated: "Improved access was a key driver for the project from the outset and it is evident in the proposed design that this has been achieved.”
He said that the AWA would argue that this is evidently not the case with regards to the canal access, adding: "It will be a lot cheaper to get the design right from the outset than it would be to change it retrospectively."