Stomper confused by 'weird' accessibility path in Serangoon Sunshine Park -- so town council explains
Our roads and pathways should provide greater access and convenience to both persons with and without disabilities — in theory.
According to Stomper Jean, however, an accessibility path within Serangoon Sunshine Park has not lived up to this ideal.
Jean said the "weird accessibility path" is located in the park at Serangoon Avenue 1, beside St Gabriel's Secondary School.
"The path makes anyone in a bike or wheelchair or stroller go uphill, and expects the users to do a sharp left turn, then through a relatively narrow 180° turn, and finally the exit is another 180° towards the traffic light," she noted.
"The step up is also blocked with metal chains, which is hard to understand."
While Jean has not witnessed any mishaps due to the confusing design, she has observed others facing trouble while using the path.
"I've seen children on their bikes wobble slowly through the random sculpture placed there and through the sloped path, and helpers pushing wheelchairs having a harder time as they go.
"It's narrow enough that kids have difficulties turning the required 180° while pushing a bicycle, much less a wheelchair user."
The Stomper suggested: "A better way would be a gentler curve upwards with a barrier at the top to prevent accidental trips through the grass and to the road."
Jean, who only moved into the area about one year ago, does not know if any other residents have shared similar opinions or how long the path has been like this. She was also unsure where to submit her feedback and turned to Stomp.
She further noted that the neighbourhood "has a lot of old folks", hence her concerns.
In response to a Stomp query, a spokesperson from Marine Parade-Braddell Heights Town Council emphasised that accessibility and safety are "key priorities" in its estate management.
The spokesperson explained that the path and ramp at the park were designed in compliance with regulatory guidelines to provide safe routes for all users, given the change in floor level.
"This includes wheelchair users, the elderly, and those who prefer a gradual slope," the spokesperson added.
"Railings along the path help reduce the risk of trips and falls due to the incline and also prevent potential collisions between park users and cyclists at blind spots.
"We remain committed to creating safe and accessible spaces for everyone and appreciate our residents' understanding and support."
Residents who have enquiries or feedback on estate amenities are encouraged to contact Marine Parade-Braddell Heights Town Council directly at 6282 0551 or 6241 6044, or via its Facebook and Instagram.
