Delivery robots reported to endanger disabled pedestrians in UK cities
Disability charities in the UK report that autonomous delivery robots operating on pavements in multiple cities pose safety and accessibility hazards to blind and wheelchair-using pedestrians. The robots, already deployed in Leeds, Milton Keynes, Bristol, Manchester and Cambridge, reportedly block mobility paths and startle guide dogs, with charities calling for a government ban pending clear legislation.
What happened
Six-wheeled autonomous delivery robots, capable of travelling at up to 4mph, have launched across several UK towns and cities including Leeds, Milton Keynes, Bristol, Manchester and Cambridge.
A video released by charity Living Streets showed the robots blocking a guide dog user and crashing into a person in a wheelchair.
Living Streets and Wheels for Wellbeing say the robots operate in a legal 'grey zone' as the government has not established clear legislation surrounding their use.
Reported impact
Dr Amit Patel, a blind disability campaigner, described how encounters with the robots 'spooked' his guide dog, compromising his safety.
Ben Foley, a wheelchair user and campaigns lead at Wheels for Wellbeing, said the robots create extra obstructions on pavements and risk blocking routes for disabled people.
Dr Patel warned that deteriorating street accessibility is driving vulnerable people out of public spaces, with some reporting it is easier and safer to use out-of-town shopping centres than local high streets.
Index analysis
A YouGov poll commissioned by Living Streets found that 80 per cent of respondents believed the robots could pose problems for blind people, while 79 per cent thought they could be an issue for those with mobility impairments.
Of those who expressed an opinion, 60 per cent said robots should not be allowed on pavements.
Governance controls
Living Streets is calling on the Government to immediately take steps to ban autonomous delivery robots while there is no clear regulation and legislation.
Tanya Braun, director of external affairs at Living Streets, said the companies operating the robots have not consulted with local communities who have legitimate concerns.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.