Wednesday 16 August 2017

Plan to make Port Stephens more accessible to the Disabled

BY ADAM ACHURCH

Port Stephens council is seeking feedback on the draft of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan, which was drafted to in order to create a more inclusive, accessible and liveable place for residents.

The plan will mainly prioritise on residents with a disability, to let them have more choices as to how they live their lives. If the plan is passed, they have the ability be to attend events and other social outings with changes to established environmental factors such as foot paths and ramps.

While the plan does in fact prioritise the disabled, it will have a much broader impact on the community as a whole. Emily Graham, the public relations and marketing coordinator for Port Stephens council, believes it will be huge benefit to the community.

 "Becoming a more socially inclusive, accessible and liveable place will benefit everyone in Port Stephens, particularly the more vulnerable people in society such as young children and the elderly."

Residents of Port Stephens are encouraged by Emily Graham to participate in the feedback exercise, so that the plan they present to the council will be "something that is built by the community and just by the council".

The draft is currently on public exhibition on the Port Stephens city council website, but will only be on exhibition until Thursday 7th of September. Residents are encouraged to review the plans and leave feedback pertaining to their opinion of the way the place is run.