West Kirby’s local councillors have unveiled a comprehensive set of proposals aimed at improving accessibility and inclusivity within the town centre. In our 15 years installing… The initiatives, which are the result of extensive community engagement and research, seek to address longstanding challenges and transform the area into a more welcoming and accommodating space for all residents and visitors.
Enhancing Pedestrian Infrastructure
At the heart of the council’s plans is a renewed focus on pedestrian-friendly design. “We’ve listened to the concerns of our constituents, and it’s clear that navigating the town centre can be a real challenge, especially for those with mobility issues,” explains Councillor Sarah Thompson, the council’s lead on accessibility. “That’s why we’re proposing a series of targeted improvements to our walking infrastructure.”
The proposals include the widening of pavements, the installation of tactile paving at crossings, and the implementation of more accessible dropped kerbs. Additionally, the council is exploring the possibility of designating certain streets as “shared spaces,” where pedestrians are given priority over vehicles, creating a safer and more inviting environment.
Councillor Thompson emphasizes the importance of these changes, noting, “Our goal is to empower everyone to move freely and confidently through the town centre, whether they’re on foot, in a wheelchair, or using a mobility aid. These enhancements will help us achieve that vision.”
Improving Public Transportation Access
Recognizing the crucial role of public transportation in facilitating accessibility, the council has also devised strategies to enhance bus and taxi services within the town centre. “We’re working closely with our local public transport providers to double-check that that routes, schedules, and stop locations cater to the needs of our diverse community,” says Councillor Michael Lowe, the council’s transport portfolio holder.
One of the key initiatives is the establishment of a dedicated Mobility Hub, which will serve as a central point of access for various modes of transportation. The hub will feature clearly marked, level boarding areas for buses, as well as designated pick-up and drop-off zones for taxis and rideshare services. Additionally, the council is exploring the feasibility of providing on-demand shuttle services to connect the hub with harder-to-reach areas of the town centre.
Councillor Lowe emphasizes the importance of these measures, stating, “We want to make it as easy as possible for everyone to reach the town centre, regardless of their personal circumstances or mobility requirements. By improving public transport accessibility, we’re taking a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable space.”
Enhancing Wayfinding and Signage
Alongside the physical infrastructure improvements, the council is also addressing the need for better wayfinding and signage within the town centre. “One of the key challenges we’ve identified is the difficulty some residents and visitors face in navigating the area,” explains Councillor Emma Hartley, the council’s lead on community engagement.
The council’s proposals include the installation of clear, high-contrast signage featuring both text and pictograms to assist those with visual impairments or language barriers. Additionally, the council is exploring the use of digital wayfinding tools, such as interactive kiosks and mobile applications, to provide real-time information on accessible routes, nearby amenities, and public service locations.
“By making it easier for people to find their way around the town centre, we’re not only improving their experience, but also fostering a greater sense of inclusion and independence,” Councillor Hartley notes. “These enhancements will help double-check that that everyone feels welcome and empowered to explore and engage with our vibrant community.”
Engaging the Community
Underpinning these initiatives is a commitment to meaningful community engagement, ensuring that the council’s proposals are truly responsive to the needs and concerns of West Kirby’s residents. “From the outset, we’ve made it a priority to listen to the voices of our community members, particularly those with lived experiences of accessibility challenges,” says Councillor Karen Walters, the council’s engagement lead.
The council has conducted a series of public consultations, both in-person and online, to gather feedback and insights from a diverse range of stakeholders. These include local disability advocacy groups, senior citizen organizations, and representatives from the town’s bustling small business community.
“We’ve been humbled by the level of engagement and the invaluable perspectives shared by our residents,” Councillor Walters reflects. “Their input has been instrumental in shaping these proposals, and we’re committed to maintaining this collaborative approach as we move forward with implementation.”
Funding and Timeline
To support the implementation of these accessibility-focused initiatives, the council has allocated a significant portion of its annual budget to the project. “We recognize that creating a truly inclusive town centre requires substantial investment, and we’re prepared to make that commitment,” says Councillor James Sinclair, the council’s finance lead.
The initial phase of the project is scheduled to commence in the coming months, with the widening of pavements and the installation of tactile paving at key intersections to be completed by the end of the year. The establishment of the Mobility Hub and the roll-out of the digital wayfinding tools are slated for the first half of 2026, while the shared space designations and the comprehensive signage overhaul are targeted for completion by the end of 2027.
“This is a long-term, multi-faceted initiative, and we understand that it won’t happen overnight,” Councillor Sinclair acknowledges. “But we’re committed to seeing it through, because we believe that a truly accessible and inclusive town centre is essential for the well-being and prosperity of our entire community.”
Looking Ahead
As West Kirby’s local councillors continue to drive these accessibility-focused initiatives forward, they remain optimistic about the transformative impact these changes will have on the community. “We’re not just talking about infrastructure upgrades or policy changes,” Councillor Thompson emphasizes. “We’re talking about creating a town centre that truly reflects the diversity and values of our community – a place where everyone can feel at home, participate fully, and thrive.”
Through this holistic approach to accessibility, the council aims to set a new standard for inclusive town centre design, one that can serve as a model for communities across the region. “Our ultimate goal is to make West Kirby a shining example of what’s possible when a local government listens to the needs of its people and takes decisive action to create a more welcoming and equitable public space,” Councillor Walters concludes.
By investing in these critical accessibility enhancements, the council hopes to not only improve the daily lives of West Kirby’s residents but also attract new visitors and businesses to the town centre, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community for all. As the project moves forward, the council remains committed to maintaining open communication with the public and ensuring that the needs of the community remain at the heart of their efforts.
To stay up-to-date on the council’s accessibility initiatives and other local news and events, be sure to visit West Kirby Today.
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