'Exceptionally difficult' - Disability campaigners share concerns over blue badge parking in Shrewsbury town centre

Shropshire Disabilities Community Group invited Shrewsbury Mayor, Councillor David Vasmer, to express worries over parking in designated bays including street furniture such as planters and bollards getting in the way, making exiting adapted vehicles tricky. 

Marcus Watkin, who founded the group along with Teri Trickett, is tetraplegic following a motorcycle accident in his thirties.

He explained: “The bollards in particular mean that it is exceptionally difficult for me to find a suitable space to exit via my ramp. 

“I have to plan carefully every journey into town so I can hopefully find a suitable space.

Marcus also volunteers for the West Midlands Air Ambulance in Shrewsbury town centre.  

Other wheelchair users in the group have highlighted difficulties with some disabled bays due to a lack of level access, meaning they have to manoeuvre into oncoming traffic in order to access the level access/tactile pavements situated away from the bays. 

Mr Vasmer, who is Shropshire Council shadow cabinet leader for Highways, toured Shoplatch and Claremont Street with the group.

The group say they are delighted that additional blue badge parking provision has been provided in Claremont Street thanks to help from Shrewsbury Bid. 

However, they would like to see adaptations to bays to ensure safe access, plus clear signage in some bays so other motorists don’t unintentionally park in designated spaces. 

Teri, who campaigned for disabled residents and visitors to have full access to the town centre after Covid, said: “We must remember that this is a town for everyone, not just those who are able-bodied. We hope the disabled community will be listened to as the Shrewsbury Moves project progresses.”

To learn more about the Shropshire Disabilities Community Group and join visit facebook.com/share/g/19nNrv4mG5/?mibextid=wwXIfr