Disability lobbyists hit back at critics

Papamoa residents Tom Bradley (left) and Paul Curry have persuaded Tauranga City Council to start removing some of the staples from pedestrian alleyways in the area. Photo / John Borren

The removal of more than 100 staples (barriers) from some walkways in Papamoa has been labelled as "stupid and a waste of ratepayers' money" by an upset resident.

However, two disability lobbyists, who live in the area, have hit back at criticism, saying the move means those using mobility scooters and wheelchairs can now use the walkways.

Papamoa residents Paul Curry and former One Network News anchor Tom Bradley have defended the "disabled-friendly" initiative. Mr Curry, chairman of Tauranga City Council's Disability Advisory Committee, said Mr Bradley instigated the idea, which was presented to council more than six months ago.

The Nautilus Drive resident said Mr Bradley lives about 50m away in Gibson Place.

"Before the staples were removed, if Tom wanted to come over for a drink it meant a kilometre round-trip around the streets unless he drove. It didn't make sense," he said.

The 2013 Census revealed 27 per cent of the Bay's population had disabilities, the second-highest number in the country, and it was predicted Tauranga would hit No1 within five years.

Mr Bradley, who described himself as an "arthritic amputee", said he and his wife relocated from Auckland to Papamoa in 2013, and could not understand why the alleyways had restricted access.

"This is not just about older people, but people of all ages, particularly those in wheelchairs or, like me, sometimes need to use a mobility scooter to get around," he said.

"Removing the staples also benefits mums or dads with double prams."