Submissions

To: Far North District Council
Date: September 2024

Purpose

This submission’s primary purpose is to support the reduction of speeds on roads, given that disabled people are among the groups at higher risk of death or injury.

Summary of DPA submission

DPA supports the reduction of speeds and the Road to Zero Strategy, highlighting that disabled people are one of the groups at higher risk of death or injury on our roads. This higher risk is due to multiple factors, including mobility impairments requiring longer times to cross roads, the need for blind and low vision people to audibly hear traffic (especially with quiet electric vehicles), and the need for more signage in high-risk areas. The increasing age of the Northland population (21.4% aged 65+ in 2023) further amplifies these concerns, as similar factors affect this demographic.
 
DPA notes that the minimal increase in travel time for drivers due to slower speeds is a small trade-off compared to the reduced risk of serious injury or death for disabled people. DPA is pleased that FNDC aims for safer roads for everyone, reducing fatal, serious, and minor crashes, including those involving pedestrians and cyclists.
 
DPA also supports the reduction of speed limits to 30km/h for Category 1 schools and 60 km/h for Category 2 schools where students actively use the road, emphasizing the paramount safety of all children, especially disabled children.
 
DPA supports FNDC’s recognition of existing, new, and planned developments, but specifically requests that cycleways and walkways are accessible for people using wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
 
Key Recommendation:

DPA recommends that FNDC Disability Advisory Group, disabled peoples’ organisations and disabled community be identified as a key population group for consultation as co-design partners on any road environment, pedestrian infrastructure and or speed management plans.
 
Supporting Statement 1:

“Research suggests that people with learning difficulties or disabilities are more at risk of being hurt or killed on roads.”
 
Supporting Statement 2:

"Councils, and agencies that look after public infrastructure like roads and footpaths, must start prioritising accessibility in the design of public spaces, and retrofit those that are not accessible.”