Spanish city wins 2024 EU Access City Award

photo from the European Commission website

Like every year, the EU Access City Award acknowledges the efforts made by cities to advance accessibility for persons with disabilities. The Spanish city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna is the big winner of the 2024 edition. AGE was part of the jury.

At a ceremony held on 1 December to mark the European Day of People with Disabilities, the Spanish city received the award for its comprehensive approach to accessibility and its commitment to improving the quality of life of people with disabilities. Efforts focused on the accessibility of urban spaces, transport systems and social activities.

Here are a few examples of the initiatives implemented by San Cristóbal de La Laguna:

  • Full accessibility of the tram vehicles and stations;
  • Acoustic traffic lights and tactile paving in the city centre;
  • Mobile space with resources for inclusive and accessible events (the “Orange Point”), providing sign language interpreters, anti-noise systems, and trained staff, as well as easy-to-read materials;
  • Adoption of an institutional declaration for the defence of the rights of persons with disabilities to promote positive actions;
  • Creation of a disability council to involve persons with disabilities in decision making, and an ombudsman for persons with disabilities who provides independent advice to the City Council.

The second-place prize was awarded to the city of Łódź (Poland) for implementing comprehensive standards of accessibility to guide all municipal investments. And the third place went to the city of Saint-Quentin (France) which has improved the accessibility of the city’s public transport network.

In addition, Tübingen (Germany) received a special mention for its city development aligned with the principles of accessibility and the New European Bauhaus.

South Dublin County (Ireland) was also awarded a special mention which recognises their commitment to ensuring play areas have varied landscapes incorporating natural elements, all while remaining accessible.

AGE participation

Accessibility is a major component of social inclusion and ageing well in cities, and therefore a key issue in our advocacy work.

This is why, this year again, AGE participated in the EU Jury, represented by Mr Rodd Bond, member of AGE Task Force on Age-friendly Environments & Accessibility.

Contact

Julia Wadoux

Policy Manager on Healthy Ageing and Accessibility

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