I was quite surprised to learn that a resident had to go on the Vanessa Feltz show to progress a disabled parking space for her disabled son. Whilst I understand that the council was in a bankrupt position until the Government had to bail them out what I found most shocking was the lack of priority given to what was not considered a statutory service. It is disappointing that potholes are more important than people with disabilities.
Since my intervention and discussion with the council I am pleased to say that the matter is being considered and within the next two weeks a decision will be made over whether this extremely important work can begin.
I would urge residents to contact us if they are experiencing problems due to the council’s current financial position.
For ease of reference there follows the Council’s initial answer:
I am writing to you regarding your application for a Disabled Parking Bay close to your property.
As you are no doubt aware the Council has recently issued a notice under the Local Government Finance Act 1988, Section 114 and, as a consequence, has now found it necessary to re-prioritise all of the services that it provides as a local authority.
Our focus is therefore our statutory provision to residents, i.e. waste collection, pothole repairs, essential social care provision etc. Unfortunately, the introduction of disabled parking bays, whilst important to the service, is not a statutory function and has been paused for the time being.
I do apologies for the distress and inconvenience that this decision will cause you. Please be assured that your details will be held on file until such time as suitable funding becomes available to allow these works to re-commence.
