Accessibility project results in 'more barriers' - Tesch
After trumpeting accessibility upgrades to Pt Clare railway station two years ago, the NSW Government will not proceed with an accessibility ramp on Brisbane Water Dr and the previously accessible tunnel now features steps, according to Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch.
"Members of the community have now been told that the accessibility ramp on the Brisbane Water Drive side will now not be included," she said.
"Stairs have now been installed to the previously accessible underpass.
"And commuters will need to wait until at least October to have an accessible entrance once the elevator is installed.
"In the meantime, the project operator has employed a commuter bus to take residents from one side to the other."
Ms Tesch said residents had told her the elevator would not be able to cater for wheelchair, pram, mobility scooter and bike users who use the underpass as well as train station commuters.
"This will be exacerbated if the lift isn't operational."
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch has called for the plans to be revised.
"This is supposed to be an accessibility upgrade.
"Instead these works are forcing community members who have a disability to face even more barriers to use public transport, go to the shops or get to school on time."
Newly-elected Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said the NSW Government needed to talk to residents
"The initial plan that the community was consulted about has now significantly changed without any concern for the impact on residents who need accessible passage through this main commuter and pedestrian thoroughfare.
"I'm calling on Minister Elliot and the NSW Government to reconsider this on-the-fly decision which will have long-term ramifications for the accessibility of one of our most popular stations."
SOURCE:
Media release, 6 Jul 2022
Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford