THE DIFFICULTIES faced daily by wheelchair users in Leamington has been experienced first hand by councillors.
Leamington Shopmobility, based in the Royal Priors shopping centre, recently challenged councillors to make their way around the town centre in a wheelchair or on a mobility scooter.
Ann Morrison, from Leamington Shopmobility, told the Observer: “All the councillors said it was an eye-opening experience. If you never had a disability or a problem in walking, you don’t realise how difficult it is to travel around the town.”
“They had to face cracked pavements, faced kerbs which were too high and had difficulty getting into shops around the town centre.”
Councillors reported struggling with the condition of some pavements, and where they could easily get something to eat and drink.
But they did highlight how they found many staff in shops eager to help. In one shop where there was a step but no ramp, staff came out to customers.
While most of the bigger shops were easy to access, some smaller retailers said it was simply impossible to make alterations to their doorways.
Leamington Shopmobility hires wheelchairs and scooters for people with mobility difficulties – from £5 per day, or £15 a year for unlimited use. Funded by the town council, it is located on the fourth floor of the Royal Priors Car Park, and is open 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Saturday.
Contact 01926 470450 for more information.
