Cllr Derry Canty is describing enforced dependency of older and #disabled people. Not just car-dependency, but dependency on goodwill of neighbours and relatives who drive.
We should be building streets where people can age with dignity, and reach shops independently.
There has been a mass decline in elderly people living in #CorkCity, forced out by lack of resources, hostile streets and inadequate housing. The absolute number and proportion of people over 65 living in the city has fallen census by census.
In net change terms, there are more working age people, especially men. Lack of family housing has forced out families with children, in addition to older people.
There has been a massive increase in younger men.
Despite the increasing hostility to vulnerable road users, MOST people who live in Cork City centre commute (to work or education) on foot, by bicycle or by public transport. Only 40% travel by car as a driver or passenger.
Removing congestion is key to a liveable city.
Are we developing toward a city where people can grow up, form relationships, have children, experience unemployment or illness, grow old and become #disabled without being forced to leave?
Or are we developing a hostile, masculine city of singletons in single-bed flats?
The skewed age and gender structure in Cork City is a tax on the lives of older people, #disabled people, and on girls & women.
Why should a city only serve young adults, and why should it favour (single) men?
wordpress.stuartneilson.com/gender-and-age…
Car-dependency is the norm for all new development, with car parks and no pedestrian access. "Plazas" without shelter or seating are displacing green space and parks. Benches and (#disabled-friendly) places to sit are being ripped out on the pretext of "anti-social behaviour".
I was born in a city. I've lived in cities all my life. I've lived in Cork City centre for 24 years. I want to grow old & remain independent where I live. I want my children to be able to live & have families here.
What does "sustainable" mean if a city can't sustain life span?
Share this Scrolly Tale with your friends.
A Scrolly Tale is a new way to read Twitter threads with a more visually immersive experience.
Discover more beautiful Scrolly Tales like this.