People with disabilities will have better access to the CBD with new “no stopping zones” on footpaths alongside accessible parking spaces, to be installed from this week.
Chair of the People City portfolio, Councillor Beverley Pinder, said new “no stopping” signs would be installed along footpaths next to more than 50 accessible parking bays from today. The signs will help ensure motorcycles don’t block accessible parking spaces.
“As a city for people, it’s crucial that Melbourne is accessible and inclusive for everyone, including people with disabilities who use our accessible parking bays,” Cr Pinder said.
“The new signs clear the way for our accessible parking bays to do what they have always been intended to do – enable ease of access for people with disabilities to move around our city.
“People with mobility restrictions may need additional space to get in and out of a car – particularly if they are using a wheelchair or other mobility aid.
“Ensuring that motorcycles don’t block the footpath alongside accessible bays is a common sense move that will ensure people have room to move easily between their car and the footpath.”
The Transport Strategy 2030, which was endorsed by the Future Melbourne Committee on 15 October, emphasises the importance of the city being accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
For people with disabilities, these spaces are vital to enable access to jobs, services and all the city has to offer.
Melbourne is the only capital city in Australia where you can legally park a motorcycle on footpaths.
The “no stopping” signs provide clarity for motorcyclists by highlighting where to keep clear if there are accessible parking spaces nearby.
Cr Pinder said the new signs were being installed following consultation with the City of Melbourne’s Disability Advisory Committee which provides ongoing civic opportunity and a voice for people with disability.
“We want people of all abilities to feel secure and empowered as they go about their lives in the city – accessible parking bays are an invaluable resource that support people with disability to access our wonderful city.
“This is a timely reminder to everyone who uses the CBD to be mindful of people with additional needs.
“For example, many people with vision impairment use the building line to navigate the city with a cane, so we also ask people not to park motorbikes next to the building line as this can cause a hazard,” Cr Pinder said.
