Traffic Zones Accessible for all Users. Design Solutions and Material Recommendations for Outdoor Traffic Zone Pavements

Abstract This article discusses the aspects of designing the pavements of pedestrian zones, shared spaces, city squares and other public spaces in terms of the selection of their parameters, colour and texture, which can significantly improve their comfort of use and, in a wider context, improve the accessibility of public spaces and buildings. When we think about a friendly city, we aim to create urban spaces free from any barriers that could exclude some people from the social life. Urban space can be defined as friendly from the perspective of an end user who moves around on foot, or uses crutches or a wheelchair, but also in the context of fully fit people, who are nevertheless limited in their movement because they are pushing a pram, carrying a baby or heavy luggage, etc. It has been proven that a well-designed pavement can significantly improve access to an area, reducing therefore the stigmatisation of elderly, disabled, blind, visually impaired people, etc. Solutions described in this article go well beyond the applicable legal acts in the context of the building law and therefore significantly improve the accessibility of public spaces and buildings and help to create spaces that are friendly to all users – i.e. spaces that are safe and free of any risks connected with disorientation, psychological security or the possibility of collision due to the existing barriers.