Accessibility Problems in City Streets for Disabled and Older Pedestrians: Reflections from the Inclusive Public Space Research Project

Anna Lawson: Professor of Law at the University of Leeds

This talk focuses on: ​

(1) what features of streets make it difficult for disabled and older pedestrians to get around; and ​

(2)The role of law, especially equality and human rights law, in addressing these problems. ​

It presents some of the UK-based findings of an international research project, based at the University of Leeds, and funded by the European Research Council. ​

The talk begins with a simple overview of international and national law and policy commitments to making city streets more accessible. It then highlights the key types of problem which our UK participants told us about. As part of this, we will play two short films (one in virtual reality), made as part of the Project. We will then reflect on limits to the effectiveness of current law, including the Equality Act 2010, in tackling this type of problem, and on possible reform. The talk will be followed by general discussion and, if time permits, an opportunity to view some of our VR films using a head-mounted display.

Held in the Claremont Room at HEART, Bennett Road, Headingley

Donation £3 but no one turned away for lack of funds

Contact: [email protected]