Footpaths on some Erskineville streets have been narrowed to make space for new garden beds, raising concerns about accessibility and presenting challenges for pedestrians, particularly those with mobility impairments.
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Dr Chris Standen, a research fellow in urban development and health at the University of NSW, argues that accessibility should not be compromised in the pursuit of these environmental goals.
Notably, 80 percent of a typical residential street is made up of roadways, leaving only 20 percent for footpaths. Dr Standen suggests that garden beds could be extended into roadways rather than taking up precious space on footpaths. He believes this approach could help maintain accessibility while also calming traffic, making streets safer and quieter.
One prominent example of this footpath-narrowing trend, as highlighted by Dr Standen, can be seen in Bridge and Ashmore streets in Erskineville. These streets connect growing residential areas to key local amenities such as Erskineville Station, schools, and shops.
Dr Standen pointed out that some footpaths are as narrow as 70 cm. He said this is below the 85 cm required for wheelchair access and falls short of the council’s own accessibility guidelines, which recommend a minimum width of 180 cm to accommodate two wheelchairs or prams passing side by side.
He emphasised that intentionally reducing accessibility for people with disabilities is unlawful under the Disability Discrimination Act.
Community Groups Sound the Alarm
This is not the first time concerns about footpath accessibility in the area have been raised. Community group WalkSydney had previously noted that Erskineville Station’s new accessible concourse is surrounded by inaccessible streets. The group stated that the footpaths on Bridge Street are so poor that many people abandon them altogether, opting instead to walk in the carriageway or use the separated cycleway.
Council Response and Ongoing Debate
In response, council representatives attended a community meeting to assess the situation. While they agreed to explore options for improving safety, such as adding passing bays on the narrowed footpaths, the council confirmed that the footpaths would not be reinstated to the previous width.
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The balance between greening streets and maintaining accessibility remains a key consideration in urban planning. As discussions continue, it is important that urban design decisions support both environmental goals and the needs of all residents.
Published 7-January-2025
