大象传媒

Is 'shared space' a safe place for blind and partially sighted people?

Shared space is a concept used in urban planning to encourage a more integrated use of public space - kerbs are dropped, and traffic lights and pedestrian crossings are often removed. Pedestrians walk along designated safe areas similar in width to a pavement but there is no kerb, instead cars, cyclists and pedestrians are all on the same level. But how suitable is it for visually impaired people? Supporters say that safety records are higher than traditionally designed high streets but some blind people argue that these spaces are not only dangerous but have become no-go areas for blind people.

Peter visits Exhibition Road, a 'shared space' in London's museum district, and talks to David Bonnett, one of the architects behind the design, as well as guide dog user Dave Kent and blind campaigner Jill Allen King.

And we hear more from blind and partially sighted listeners about their experiences of the job market.