Oslo's Urban Environment Agency has issued strong criticism of security measures around Norway's Government Quarter. The agency sent an official concern notice to Statsbygg, the state construction agency. They warn that current security installations create traffic hazards for wheelchair users, visually impaired people, cyclists, and pedestrians.
The criticism focuses on recently installed granite blocks and bollards. Agency officials measured gaps between bollards on Akersgata outside Oslo Nye Central Theater. They found distances of only 85 and 88 centimeters. These measurements fall significantly below national standards for universal design.
Many wheelchair users will find these narrow passages challenging or impossible to navigate. The lack of visual openings between bollards creates additional difficulties for visually impaired individuals. The agency states these barriers fail to provide equal mobility access for all citizens.
Cyclists face particular dangers according to the assessment. The tight spacing may force cyclists into bus lanes, creating hazardous situations. Officials specifically worry about injuries from sharp granite stones and potential bus collisions. Electric scooter riders face similar risks in the area.
The agency calls it 'reprehensible' that Statsbygg didn't prioritize accessibility in such a central Oslo location. They note the security measures could make Oslo less attractive for cycling overall.
This controversy stems from the ongoing reconstruction following the 2011 terrorist attack. That tragedy destroyed several government buildings and killed eight people. The current construction project represents one of Norway's most expensive public works, budgeted at approximately 54 billion kroner.
Statsbygg defends the security measures as necessary anti-terror protections. Communications director Pål Weiby stated bollards follow national and international security standards. He acknowledged the tight spacing for larger bicycles and wheelchairs but maintained they can still pass through.
Weiby explained that varying street widths required adjustments to bollard placement. He noted the Government Quarter cannot always follow standard city guidelines due to security requirements. Statsbygg plans additional safety measures including better lighting and bollard markings.
Both agencies express concern for pedestrian and cyclist safety. The disagreement highlights the challenge balancing security needs with public accessibility. This situation mirrors similar debates in other European capitals where security measures sometimes conflict with urban mobility goals.
The reconstruction project reached a milestone in October when Akersgata and parts of the Government Quarter reopened after years of closures. The current dispute suggests ongoing tensions between security priorities and public space design. Oslo residents and commuters will continue navigating these competing needs as the area develops further.