The national sight loss charity RNIB Scotland has welcomed a landmark decision by the City of Edinburgh Council to make its temporary ban on street advertising boards permanent.
Councillors on the local authority’s Transport Committee yesterday voted to extend the ban, first piloted last autumn after campaigns by the charity and others.
James Adams, director of RNIB Scotland, said: “Today’s bold and forward-thinking decision is very welcome news for blind and partially sighted people.
“A third of those that RNIB surveyed previously said they had been injured by pavement obstacles. This ban has made Edinburgh a safer and more welcoming environment for residents and visitors with disabilities.
“We hope other towns and cities across the UK will follow suit. If a city as historic and important as Edinburgh to the Scottish and UK economy can take this step, others can too. The council has worked with local businesses to look at alternatives such as wall advertising.
“As we look to transform our towns and cities we must avoid creating no go zones for residents and visitors with disabilities. A vital element for any successful 21st century city must be inclusivity, one that is open and welcoming to everyone, no matter what needs they have.”
Blind campaigner and city resident Kirin Saeed was among those who spoke to the transport committee meeting about their personal experiences. “I am delighted and proud of the City of Edinburgh council for agreeing to make permanent a move that will enable blind and partially sighted people to walk the streets of Edinburgh with freedom,” she said.
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