As the 2014 Commonwealth Games draw closer, there’s a huge focus on Glasgow’s public transport system and, more specifically, how accessible it is for disabled users.
Campaigners are warning that the existing transport infrastructure can’t cope with current demand, never mind the arrival of the hundreds of thousands more people that will attend the Commonwealth Games next year.
Although there are wheelchair accessible buses, critics say that drivers do not always use the access ramps which are supposed to allow wheelchair users to board. Even then, only one wheelchair can fit onboard at a time.
Policy and Research Officer for Glasgow Disability Alliance (GDA), Nick Henderson, commented: “Buses are a very good example of fair access for disabled people.
“It’s not the buses, which have been adapted but the attitude of the drivers who are not willing to help out.
“Some simply refuse to allow a wheelchair on board.”
Train and Underground Issues
It’s not only Glasgow’s buses that have come under fire, as trains are just as problematic. There’s often a lack of space for disabled passengers, who have to rely on railway staff to get them on and off at platforms at both ends of their journey.
GDA says that disabled passengers don’t even consider taking the subway due to the lack of accessibility.
“Subway stations are quite a problem for disabled passengers. They could make them far more accessible.”
More Customer Consideration Needed
Overall, disability campaigners hold the strong belief that it’s the lack of integration in Glasgow’s public transport system which causes stress for the majority of disabled people. They are calling on improved focus on accessibility in preparation for the influx of visitors that will descend on Glasgow in 2014.
Mr. Henderson adds: “To actually get to the Games, the disabled should get a gold medal. There should be much more consideration for customers and a much more integrated transport network in Glasgow.”
