Research by Guide Dogs NSW/ACT has revealed there are new footpath and urban design challenges faced by people with vision impairment.
A national survey of those with low vision or blindness found many challenges impacted their confidence in getting out and about with new-style urban design features such as micro-mobility, shared paths, shared roads, and crowd protection barriers now on the list.
The application of shared paths has increased significantly as the speed and unpredictability of cyclists and micro-mobility users means these paths feel unsafe.
Flush finishes at intersections with traffic lights where there are no gutters, kerbs or kerb ramps can be an issue too. Multiple lanes of traffic in both directions, together with buses and light rail, create high levels of anxiety for safety and are often avoided.
Many design features that are essential for some, are also good for others. Children are taught to stop at kerbs for safety, and older people prefer clear separation between footpaths and other zones. People with neurodiverse conditions, including dementia, also need clear signals to navigate the built environment.