Elderly access denied

Curtin University spatial sciences PhD student Grace Lin led the project, which developed a tool for measuring the accessibility of seven Perth train stations ” Greenwood, Warwick, Cannington, Claremont, Midland, Murdoch and Warnbro.

The students used government information and data gathered directly from transit users.

‘By mapping and analysing the location of key infrastructure such as ramps and lifts, alongside direct road access, park-and-ride options and the community’s perceptions, we provided a comprehensive picture of each station’s accessibility,’ Ms Lin said.

‘Greenwood had the lowest elderly patronage of the seven stations examined and also had low seat availability, lack of street parking, low intermodal connectivity and far away shopping opportunities.’

Midland and Murdoch stations were found to be the most accessible.

‘Midland had really great walking accessibility, with shopping opportunities and health care right nearby the station,’ Ms Lin said.