SINGAPORE - Concrete kerbs meant to deter errant cyclists at a ramp leading to an overhead bridge in Bedok North have been removed, following criticism that they hindered wheelchair access.

East Coast-Fengshan Town Council said that after consulting the Building and Construction Authority on the barrier-free access guidelines and evaluating suggestions received, it decided to replace the kerbs with two bollard poles and an 'n' shape railing with a sign reading "dismount and push" on both sides.

A spokesman said: "The space at both sides of the bollard poles will make it easier for the elderly to walk and hold on to the handrail provided at the sides. For wheelchair users, the space between the two bollard poles and the railing are sufficient for them to move through without difficulty.

"We seek the cooperation of the cyclists to slow down, dismount and push their bicycles when they approach this barrier. We will continue to work with and in the interest of our residents. "

The Straits Times reported last month that the yellow kerbs, located at the bottom of a ramp near Block 106 Bedok North Avenue 4, drew criticism online after netizens pointed out that the barriers may hamper wheelchair access.

The Town Council said then that the kerbs were erected as a pilot interim measure after complaints about reckless cyclists. Existing signs informing cyclists to dismount at the ramp had been ineffective, leading to near collisions with pedestrians and joggers.

Senior Minister of State for National Development Desmond Lee said in Parliament on Tuesday that barriers installed in common areas such as void decks and walkways must not obstruct the elderly and people with disabilities.