June Meeting

After the minutes of the previous meeting were accepted, it was confirmed that as a result of the Access Exhibition, the Arcade Cafe had brought out large print menus and the Angel Lane Chip Shop were planning for a portable ramp. In another development, Dave Kitson, the electrical shop on Great Dockray, had installed a ramp into the existing step. Some members of the group were disappointed with the press coverage of the event. It was decided that the chairman would contact Tanni Grey-Thompson at a later date if the Forum decides another event is merited and worked out.

After Ray told the Forum of the details required by Capita for improvements to Pelican crossings, Shirley Grisedale offered to provide such information, and Ray would set up a meeting with Capita.

The Warehouse has been shortlisted to be surveyed in the ‘Pubs and Restaurants’ Guide with an emphasis on the first floor access.

Ray and representatives of Capita met with Pategill residents to decide on locations for drop kerbs. A final costed list will be forwarded when complete.

A meeting of the DES reference group took place on Monday April 28 for the first review. It was accepted, apart from an item on ‘Accomodation Review’ and has been published on the council website.

Ray told the Forum he had surveyed 25 properties in Alston and these results will be added to the ‘comparative report’ with some mention of the difficulty of access because of the hilly terrain. He also confirmed Patrica Bell had been informed of the Forums decision regarding the Mobility Scooter/Wheelchair Users group. Together with Greg Sadler, he had agreed a basic survey and shortlist for the ‘Pubs and Restaurants’ Guide’. It was suggested, and accepted, that the Co-op be included, and Ray was hoping to complete these within the next month.

Terry Barritt reported on the exhibition of the planned Booths supermarket at Bowmans Carpet Showroom, and felt the plans were good, except for a possible shortage of disabled car parking.

Ray showed members planning applications at Tebay, Clifton and Tirril. He will forward the Forums comments to the relevant planning case officer. Members raised concerns about access to new holiday homes in Lazonby and Whitbarrow. Ray has queried these with the Council Building Control Officers. In his last report as Access Officer, Ray outlined the work that had been achieved with the ‘disability access grants’ and expressed regret that this fund had been axed. He went on to outline how his post might be replaced, and told members of his recent meeting with Sir Bert Massey, the former chairman of the Disability Rights Commission, who clearly preferred an ‘Access Officer’ post being retained in local authorities. Ray outlined the pressures faced by local authorities to cover all aspects of equality, but would agree with Sir Bert Massey on this issue. The Forum expressed a very strong preference for the position to remain unchanged, and the Chairman undertook to write a strong letter to the council to state this. This letter has been sent by email.

Ray confirmed 24 members and friends were booked on the Lady Wakefield for the 18th of June, with transport arrangements to be finalised.

Terry Barritt then raised the issue of access into the Halifax, and the apparent reluctance of staff to consider a portable ramp. Ray outlined past discussions he had had with the Halifax regarding the matter.

The next meeting of the Forum will be August 5th.