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<p>The Government published its response to the Women and Equalities Select Committee
report on 14 March 2018. It can be found at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/disability-and-the-built-environment-government-response-to-select-committee-report"
target="_blank">https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/disability-and-the-built-environment-government-response-to-select-committee-report</a>.</p><p>
</p><p>The response welcomed the Committee’s contribution to this important debate
and is absolutely clear that the needs of the whole community, including disabled
people, need to be considered by councils looking to introduce any public realm scheme,
including shared space.</p><p> </p><p>The Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation
has now reported to the Government on its review of shared space. It published “Creating
better streets: Inclusive and accessible places” in January 2018.</p><p><a href="http://www.ciht.org.uk/en/document-summary/index.cfm/docid/BF28B40D-9855-46D6-B8C19E22B64AA066"
target="_blank">http://www.ciht.org.uk/en/document-summary/index.cfm/docid/BF28B40D-9855-46D6-B8C19E22B64AA066</a></p><p>
</p><p>The review has considered many of the issues raised by the Committee, and the
report made recommendations for further work, including on guidance. The Government
is considering those recommendations and will respond formally in due course.</p><p>
</p><p>The Department for Transport is aware of and understands the issues raised
around navigation within shared space. Local Transport Note 1/11: Shared Space already
stresses the importance of engaging with groups representing disabled people during
the development of any shared space scheme. It also refers to the need for authorities
to ensure their designs are inclusive and reminds them of their duties under the Equality
Act 2010.</p><p> </p><p>Local traffic authorities are responsible for the design of
streets in their care, and do not have to seek Department for Transport approval to
install street design schemes, whether they incorporate shared space or not.</p><p>
</p><p>With regards to the driving test, both the theory and practical test are periodically
updated to ensure the tests are kept up to date. There are no plans currently to include
shared space.</p><p> </p>
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