THE Public Transport Authority (PTA) have confirmed there are no plans to install shelter along the pathway from the multi-storey car park to the Midland Station entrance while construction is underway.

In Station parking concerns (Echo News, August 1) a Chidlow letter writer said they had been advised by a Transperth officer from the disability team the situation at the train station was unsatisfactory but it was unlikely anything would be done for at least 18 months.

Echo News asked the PTA to confirm which part of the situation was unsatisfactory as reported by the Transperth officer and what train users could expect after the 18 months passed but the department is yet to confirm the details.

The risks due to the lack of shelter was reported in Poor planning putting people with disability at risk (Echo News, August 1).

“While weather conditions affect everyone, it is important to understand that people with disability are greatly disadvantaged by what may seem like regular inconveniences or minor annoyances to people without disability,” a Uniting WA spokesperson said.

A PTA spokesperson said the department was committed to making public transport accessible for everyone.

“The current temporary pathway arrangements between the multi-storey car park and existing station are compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act requirements,” the spokesperson said.

“Once the project is complete, there will be natural shade through tree canopy and landscaping, with seating available for passengers to stop and rest between the station and car park.”

Greenmount resident Barb Du Val frequently uses the train service but said while she appreciates the plans to include seating, using landscape for shelter wasn’t enough and preferred a durable permanent structure being installed.

“It’s no use making it all pretty and things like that if it doesn’t work for people,” she said.