Senior woman is fighting for more benches at bus stops in Wilhelmshaven!

Senior woman is fighting for more benches at bus stops in Wilhelmshaven!

In Wilhelmshaven, the situation at bus stops is increasingly becoming an issue, especially for older people and people with limited mobility. The committed Ursula Ahrns-Klöfer has made it her mission to remedy the situation and is calling for more benches and waiting areas. She emphasizes how important these facilities are for seniors, who often have to wait for a long time, especially at the “Luisenstrasse” stop, where there is a lack of seating. A look at reality shows: Line 3 only has three of 18 stops that are equipped with a roof and seats, while the city of Wilhelmshaven operates a total of around 320 bus stops, only some of which are equipped with waiting shelters and seating.

The lack of benches is explained by city spokeswoman Julia Muth as a result of the low use of many stops. Often these facilities are not the responsibility of the city, but are the responsibility of the state of Lower Saxony, which further complicates matters. Ahrns-Klöfer is particularly critical of the situation on Gökerstrasse and at the “Friedrich-Paffrath-Strasse” stop, where the need for seating is high. “The only option left for older people is to sit on a cool bench or wait standing up,” explains Ahrns-Klöfer.

The challenge of accessibility

The problem of the lack of seating also brings with it the discussion about accessibility in public spaces. The Act on Equality for Disabled People (BGG) and the requirements of the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG), which comes into force until the end of June 2025, place high demands on public transport. Accessibility is becoming a crucial factor not only for people with disabilities, but also for older people in order to participate in social life. It is undisputed that public transport also needs to tackle materials such as SEDO and modern, barrier-free design.

SEDO offers a wide range of high-quality, barrier-free benches that are characterized by their durability and flexibility. These benches are specifically designed to provide comfortable seating for people with walkers or wheelchairs. Particular attention is paid to individual adjustment so that seniors are supported in their mobility. Backrests and armrests make it easier to sit down and stand up, which is particularly helpful for older generations.

An initiative for improvement

Ahrns-Klöfer sent a letter to Mayor Carsten Feist and the transport company a year ago, but there was no response. She is now planning a fundraising campaign to work with the public to finance more benches. “It’s not just about comfort, but about the dignity of the people who rely on these facilities,” she emphasizes. Retrofitting with waiting shelters would cost the city around 25,000 euros per stop, a sum that is often not provided.

At a time when investments in accessibility and the associated quality of life should increase, it is important that citizens' voices are heard. Because as the BMV emphasizes: accessibility is not just a legal requirement, but also a sign of social responsibility and opportunities for participation for everyone. In Wilhelmshaven, the use of more benches at the bus stops could be a first step in the right direction to enable all citizens to use public transport equally.