Disability Protest Over Dangerous Path

Date published: 24/05/2005

The closure of Woodlands Road is causing further controversy with local people with disabilities, and they are to address Councillors at this Wednesday’s Township Meeting. They are to point out that the Council approved “Walking Diversion” beside the Bowling Green, is blocked with a 3 metre fence. The only other direct way between Spotland and Shawclough cannot be used by people with disabilities.

Mr Somerville says that the top fine gravel surface has washed away over the past decade. All that remains are large loose stones that make the path hazardous for walkers and impossible for most wheelchair users.

Mr Somerville is asking for the land owner to make emergency repairs to the footpath so that it is safe for everybody:

“When Turners were allowed to close the old Hollows Road off and create this path, they had a legal duty to keep it maintained. This is now the responsibility of the new landowners.

“Although we are asserting our rights under the Disability Discrimination Act, this is not just a disability issue. How can people with prams use this path? If the path remains in this hazardous condition, I foresee people could be injured- Rochdale Council may have to issue more Blue Badges”.

Here is the question submitted to Rochdale Township that is to be put to Councillors at this Wednesday’s meeting: (Al Somerville, Spotland):

“I am registered disabled. Whilst I have no objection with closing Woodlands Rd for a short period on the strict grounds of protecting public health, I have discovered serious problems with the Walking Diversion posted on the Emergency Closure Notice:

The map instructs me to go up the well maintained tarmac road up to the Bowling Green and then right onto Hollows Lane.

Unfortunately there is a 3 metre steel fence blocking my path. This route was diverted following an RMBC Public Inquiry about 10 years ago.The alternative route that was created at that time (behind the Bowling Green) has not been maintained.   

I believe that this path cannot be used by disabled people in its current state and as such may be a breach of the Disability Discrimination Act”.