Optus Stadium designers considered incorporating a “roof climb” similar to the popular Adelaide Oval attraction but shelved it because they struggled to make it accessible for people with disabilities or restricted mobility.

The revelation has sparked debate over whether some attractions should cater only for able-bodied participants or be banned if not everybody can use it.

An Optus Stadium spokeswoman confirmed that a “roof climb and rooftop walk” were among ideas discussed when three shortlisted respondents were invited to submit ideas on how to use the precinct on non-event days.

“This idea did not proceed to a firm proposal as preliminary advice indicated it would be a difficult option to establish if the stadium was to maintain its commitment to ensuring the stadium catered for everyone, regardless of age, experience or ability,” she said.

Camera Icon Adelaide Oval’s RoofClimb, which is promoted by the South Australian Government, has proved popular. Credit: Commonwealth Bank RoofClimb Adelaide Oval / Facebook

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“While the design of Optus Stadium does not currently include a fully accessible roof walk, the roof structure does contain a series of gantries, walkways and access points for maintenance purposes, which could be adapted into a rooftop walk in the future.

“Any future feasibility study would need to include consideration of access for people with mobility issues.”

The Adelaide Oval RoofClimb, which costs between $99 for a day tour and $225 to watch a quarter of an AFL game 50m above the turf, opened in 2016 and is promoted by the South Australian Government.

It is not available to people with difficulty climbing unassisted.

People with Disabilities WA executive director Samantha Jenkison said: “We are basically saying if you are going to have an attraction which is a public attraction on a public venue then it should be available to anybody.”

Tourism Council executive director Evan Hall said Perth was crying out for new attractions and urged the Government to reconsider an Optus Stadium climb.

Camera Icon The walk gives punters the opportunity to get a rooftop view of sporting events. Credit: Commonwealth Bank RoofClimb Adelaide Oval / Facebook

“Some attractions, by their very nature, are not suitable for everyone but this doesn’t mean they should be prevented from going ahead,” he said.

Premier Mark McGowan said wherever possible attractions should have universal access.

“That’s the way that a civilised community should conduct itself,” he said.