May Meeting

After the February minutes were accepted, the chairman gave a review of the exhibition and outlined some positive outcomes, including that the landlord of the Woolpack had asked about highlighting internal steps and the Arcade Cafe now planned to produce some large print menus. It was agreed it was also a useful networking opportunity. It was suggested, and agreed, that any future events be delayed while a better advertising strategy was created. The chairman suggested contacting Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson for a future event.

Ray requested that members let him know of any drop kerbs they think are required. He would meet with Ivy Wilkinson to assess requirements at Pategill estate. After Shirley Grisedale highlighted problems with Pelican crossings and knowing when cars have stopped, a meeting with Capita was suggested. Maintainence of footpaths, such as outside the Co-op and the Shell Garage, was raised as a problem which needs to be addressed.

Prior to a DES Reference Group meeting in April, Ray stated that most objectives were on target, the three main town surveys were complete ahead of schedule and Alston would be surveyed in May. A Forum sub-committee had completed impact assessments of the high priority Council policies and strategies and would monitor and quality assess in the future. Of the 18 objectives, most were progressing satisfactorily, and the review would be published on the council website. It was agreed Ray, Greg and Terry would look to complete the Alston survey in May.

Attention turned to the Mobility Scooter/Wheelchair Users Group, and after discussion, it was decided any further meetings would be arranged only if there was an issue specific to that group. Some members had already joined the Forum which it was felt could deal with most of the relevant issues. Members would be informed.

Ray agreed to devise a survey for the ‘Pubs and Restaurants’ Guide, based on ‘disabledgo’ surveys, and confirm the database was comprehensive. A sub-group would discuss this on May 1st. He also confirmed, with Doreen, that the Lazonby railway station ramp is completed. Northern Rail have confirmed a ‘hand over’ will take place, and will inform the Forum of any plans for publicity.

It was then agreed Terry Barritt would attend an exhibition of plans for a Booths food store at Bowmans Carpets and report back to the Forum on his findings.

In his report, Ray Beare informed the Forum that several grant offers had been cancelled and re-allocated to provide induction loops in a number of churches and also a stairlift in Nenthead Village Hall. He is also discussing a grant with Gossipgate Gallery, Alston, for a wheelchair accessible WC. Ray went on to inform the Forum he will be leaving the Council at the end of July.
The Forum event on the Lady Wakefield was next on the agenda, with Ray confirming Council funding for members of the Forum, with an initial budget for 15 people, but Ray acknowledged this may need to be revised.

Terry Barritt raised the issue of access to the Halifax, and after discussion, it was agreed a more direct approach should be adopted in this case, and also with the Warehouse. Access to Penrith Building Society is under discussion with that business. The heavy doors at the rear of Woolworths were mentioned and it was suggested an approach be made with a view to installing automatic doors.

As the meeting concluded, the date of 3rd June was announced for the next meeting.