Delivery robots, small six-wheeled machines that travel at speeds up to 4mph and are used to deliver food and other items, have sparked concerns among disability advocates and campaigners in the UK. These devices, which keep food at a consistent temperature during transit, have been deployed in several cities including Leeds, Milton Keynes, Bristol, and Manchester. However, critics argue that the rapid expansion of this technology has not included sufficient consultation with people with disabilities, who are most likely to be affected by the robots' presence on public sidewalks.
A video released by the charity Living Streets showed one of these robots blocking a guide dog user and colliding with a person in a wheelchair. Tanya Braun, director of external affairs at Living Streets, emphasized that pavements are meant for people, not for commercial use. She warned that the lack of clear legislation allows tech companies to operate in a legal grey area, potentially endangering pedestrians and creating accessibility barriers. Campaigners have called for a pause in the use of delivery robots until proper safety regulations are in place.
Public opinion appears to support these concerns. A YouGov survey found that 60% of respondents believe delivery robots should be banned from public footpaths. Dr. Amit Patel, who became blind in 2013, shared how the robots have caused his guide dog to become agitated. He highlighted the growing issue of poor street accessibility, which is pushing vulnerable individuals away from public spaces. Wheelchair users have also raised alarms, noting that narrow and cluttered sidewalks leave little room for error when navigating alongside automated machines.
Ben Foley, campaigns and policy lead at Wheels for Wellbeing, pointed out that many people who rely on wheelchairs, tricycles, and mobility scooters often face insufficient space on pavements. He warned that the increasing use of delivery robots could block essential routes for disabled individuals, limiting their access to vital services. These concerns have prompted calls for more inclusive urban planning and stricter oversight of the technology.
Starship Technologies, the company behind many of the delivery robots in the UK, argues that regulation is necessary but should not hinder innovation, job creation, or environmental benefits. A company spokesperson told The Independent that safety and accessibility must be central to any new rules. Meanwhile, the UK government has acknowledged the need for new legislation. The Department for Transport is working on creating a "low-speed zero-emission vehicle" legal category that could include pavement robots in the future. Trials are being planned to ensure these devices can coexist safely with pedestrians, and the government has committed to prioritizing the safety of all road users in the process.
Campaigners Warn of Risks Posed by Autonomous Delivery Robots on UK Pavements
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