Accessibility on the Müritz: Progress and hurdles for those affected

Accessibility on the Müritz: Progress and hurdles for those affected

In the charming towns around the Müritz, the issue of accessibility is in full swing. Many people with disabilities often face the challenge of reaching public places such as pharmacies, doctor's offices and bars. This is not only stressful, but also a question of justice. How well positioned are the Müritz municipalities? There is progress in this regard, but also some stumbling blocks. Loud Northern Courier the mayor of Penzlin, Sven Flechner, brings light into the darkness.

Penzlin itself has been a place steeped in history for 762 years, but many of the historic buildings are not barrier-free. The gradients and steps represent a real hurdle, especially for people with disabilities. It is positive that new public buildings, such as the Neue Burg community center, the elementary school and the Voßhaus, take accessibility into account from the outset. Unfortunately, the Old Castle, which is not barrier-free due to monument protection requirements, remains an exception. However, Mayor Flechner emphasizes that work is being done to ensure accessibility at exhibitions and events, with the exception of the Old Castle.

The situation in other municipalities

The wheel turned a little further. The city map “Barrier-free through the city” was presented here in May 2023, available at the tourist information center. The city is planning to design new construction measures according to current standards and is actively involving the disabled people's association in the process. But there are also challenges in goods: treadmills in the city center are often blocked by retailers, which represents another barrier for people with disabilities.

In Röbel, the issue of accessibility is taken seriously, especially when it comes to the old town crossings. The exchange with the senior citizens' council and social organizations is going well. Particularly nice: The Werner Schinko House has a barrier-free meeting area, and the senior Christmas parties take place in a barrier-free room. For Malchow, however, the situation remains unclear because the administration has not commented on the issue.

Legal situation and obligations

However, accessibility is not just a local issue, it is also regulated by law. According to Article 3 of the Basic Law of the Federal Republic of Germany, people with disabilities may not be disadvantaged. This legal basis aims to ensure equal treatment and equal opportunities so that all people can lead a self-determined life, like the Human Action clearly stated.

The website www.staedtebaufoerderung.info, created by the Federal Institute for Building, Urban and Spatial Research, also has its own accessibility requirements. However, the site does not initially ensure complete accessibility, as the reference to missing alternative content and correct alternative text shows. The BBSR is actively working on improvements to meet the requirements of the EU directive, according to the statement Urban development funding website.

This makes it clear that there is a lot of focus on accessibility in the municipalities on the Müritz. While progress is being made, work still needs to be done in various areas to ensure that those who need support can access all aspects of public life with ease. The discussion around accessibility is still important and necessary to create a welcoming environment for everyone.