In 2012, CAE was commissioned by City of York Council to carry out an accessibility and mobility audit of the historic city centre. The council has committed to making York accessible to all whilst preserving its unique heritage features.
Our audit outlined accessibility issues based on current inclusive design and best practice standards. Clear recommendations for actions will be implemented as part of the city centre improvement plans.
CAE’s approach
CAE mapped street journey audits, identifying stakeholders with the help of York Equality Advisory Group. In addition, interviews with visitors and local disabled people gained user-centred insight.
Recommendations to improve access without endangering the city’s heritage included:
- removing unnecessary street clutter and pavement obstructions
- repairing areas of poor paving
- improving pedestrian links from public transport and between cultural and heritage attractions
- better parking enforcement to ensure narrow streets remain accessible
- provision of suitable and sufficient numbers of public seating