Question
(Disability Access in front of Irvine's in Florey)
- What is the current status of the request by the Irvine Cafe and Bar seeking approval to build a ramp to improve disability accessibility.
- What date was this request made with the ACT Government; if a response was provided, (a) what was the response and (b) when was the response provided; if there was a delay in response, what is the reason for the delay.
Answer
(1) The Irvine Café and Bar is located at Blocks 11 and 12 Section 187 Florey. The proposal was subject to a development application (DA) and building approval (BA). The Territory Planning Authority (the Authority) has advised that their records do not include any requests relating to access on this site. It is noted that the BA process is managed by a private building certifier.
As part of the delivery of a new toilet facility at Florey Shops, Transport Canberra and City Services (TCCS) installed a Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant footpath. The path links the toilet block and shop front and traverses along Connah Street and returns to the existing path network at Ratcliffe Crescent.
TCCS has advised that, in April 2024, the developer of Irvine Café and Bar submitted plans to TCCS for a proposed ramp outside the café building that would encroach on public land. A request for a ramp on public land, with a primary purpose of supporting a private business, is a relatively an uncommon request. TCCS has been engaging closely with the owners and proprietors since, acknowledging the impact on all those who frequent the shops.
Following engagement, I understand that TCCS has provided in-principle support for the construction of a ramp, subject to details and approvals being finalised.
(2) As stated above, plans were submitted to TCCS in April 2024. At the end of May 2024, the architect acting on behalf of the applicant provided TCCS with several detailed ramp options for wheelchair access into the café. TCCS have carried out a site inspection to confirm feasibility of the design options and offered support for the preferred option on 4 June 2024.