Submissions

To: Christchurch City Council
Date: July 2024

Purpose

This submission’s primary purpose is to advocate for an accessible, inclusive, integrated, and climate-friendly transport system. DPA aims to ensure that all buses and associated network ongoing accessibility challenges faced by disabled people when using public transport, including buses.

DPA stresses the importance of all buses being designed and built to the standards outlined in the 2022 Requirements for Urban Buses (RUB), and that universal design accessibility requirements inform the design and construction of associated network infrastructure.

Summary of DPA submission

DPA recommends that NZTA and other stakeholders involved in funding, design, and construction of buses and network infrastructure engage in co-design processes with disabled people and disability organisations.

DPA supports bus stop designs that accommodate larger buses and provide accessible, dry, accommodate four wheelchair spaces, include separate luggage/stroller spaces, have fully flat floors, and that ramps are wide enough for larger mobility devices.

DPA uses this consultation to address the safety of bus terminals, hubs, and stations from crime and anti-social behaviour, noting increasing attacks in cities like Auckland and Dunedin. DPA recommends reviewing the design and safety aspects of all future bus hubs, shelters, and stops to ensure maximum safety. DPA also recommends improving bus driver and passenger safety.

Key Recommendation:

NZTA and other stakeholders involved in the funding, design, and construction of buses and network infrastructure must engage in co-design processes with disabled people and disability organisations.

Supporting Statement 1:

Research indicates that disabled people face ongoing accessibility challenges when using public transport, highlighting the necessity of their direct involvement in developing effective and inclusive solutions.

Supporting Statement 2:

Co-design ensures that all aspects of public transport infrastructure, including bus stops and bus designs, meet universal design accessibility requirements, creating truly safe and usable environments for everyone, particularly preventing new barriers for disabled users.