Tameside partners with RNIB to improve street design for blind and partially sighted residents

A new partnership is helping to shape more inclusive streets and public spaces across the borough, with councillors and officers working alongside the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to better understand the needs of blind and partially sighted residents.

On Tuesday 7 October, council staff took part in a street audit with RNIB representatives, walking a route through Ashton town centre and surrounding pedestrianised areas. The walk focused on key transport hubs, crossings, and busy highways, offering a mix of best practice examples and legacy infrastructure in need of improvement.

Participants wore ‘simulated specs’, which are special glasses that replicate visual impairments such as tunnel vision and cataracts. This gave a first-hand understanding of the everyday challenges faced by blind and partially sighted people.

The walk was led by RNIB Northwest representative Terri Balon, who introduced the charity’s Key Principles of Inclusive Street Design. These include accessible crossings, unobstructed footways, clear colour contrast, and tactile paving, all of which can make a meaningful difference to people navigating public spaces with sight loss.

Councillor Stephen Homer Executive Member for Towns, Transport and Connectivity, said:
"We’re proud to be working with RNIB to ensure our streets are designed for everyone. Experiencing the town centre through the lens of someone with sight loss was incredibly powerful. It’s vital that our infrastructure reflects the needs of all residents, and this partnership will help us embed inclusive design into future highways and public realm improvements."

Over two million people in the UK live with sight loss, and Tameside Council is committed to making its public spaces safer, more accessible, and inclusive for all.