Make Way Day is a Disability Federation Ireland (DFI) led initiative, working in collaboration with local government, the voluntary sector and the Roads Policing Unit of An Garda Síochána. Newbridge Disability Access Group support this campaign annually to highlight issues that block the way for local residents and to take note of trip hazards and un-dished kerbs that need rectifying. It is a well worthwhile project and we take pride in noticing improvements.
The aim is to educate and raise awareness of the needs of disabled people in the public spaces we all share. Make Way Day is about one impactful coordinated and decisive day of action to improve the access of our towns and cities for everyone. “Hey, this blocks my way!” is the message. Obstacles include anything that the public has control over. For example:
- Cars/Vans parked on footpaths
- Wheelie Bins on footpaths
- Kegs on footpaths
- Sandwich boards/ signs on the footpath– (check local by-laws on sandwich boards)
- Overgrown hedges and overhanging trees
- Bikes tied to lampposts/ railings
