Pelt (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Overpelt shops welcomed WICO Campus students to assess accessibility for those with mobility issues, collaborating with the local advisory board. Early findings reveal simple fixes can improve access, and compliant businesses will be featured on the “On Wheels” app. The local government plans to expand the study to other village centres.
On Friday, February 7, 2025, shops in Overpelt welcomed students from the 7th year of home and elderly care at WICO Campus. The students are studying how easy it is for people with mobility issues to access these businesses. They are working with the local advisory board.
The students checked things like door heights and aisle widths. Officials mentioned that this project shows that the town wants to make life easier for everyone, especially the elderly and people with disabilities. They mentioned that the businesses are glad to get feedback because better access helps all customers.
How can Overpelt shops improve accessibility for everyone?
According to authorities, the research is still ongoing, but early results show that many accessibility issues come from small problems. They mentioned that a small step at the door, a shelf blocking an aisle, or furniture in the way can make it hard for people with wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers to move.
Officials mentioned that many of these issues can be fixed easily and cheaply. The town sees this as a chance for local businesses to make small changes that can help everyone. The study aims to create a shopping area in Overpelt that is easier for all customers to use.
In the coming weeks, all food places that joined the accessibility study will get a report. This report will show how accessible they are and where they can improve. It will point out issues like steps at the entrance, aisle sizes, and furniture placement. It will also give suggestions for making their places easier to access.
If a business already meets accessibility rules, it will be added to the “On Wheels” app. This app lists accessible restaurants and shops in Flanders. Officials mentioned that it helps people with mobility challenges find good places to visit. They said that being on the app will help these businesses get noticed.
The local government will study other village centres in Pelt. They want to check how accessible these places are for people with disabilities, older people, and parents with strollers. By working with local businesses, they hope to make shopping and dining easier for everyone.
