Improving access (From Watford Observer)

Improving access

7:29am Sunday 29th June 2008

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Jostling through the frenzied crowds of Watford High Street can be a stressful task for anybody.

But for those with physical disabilities, or visual or hearing impairments, the hustle and bustle can become an overwhelming experience.

This week 14 people with a range of disabilities joined the Mayor of Watford, the town’s licensing manager and a representative of Hertfordshire Highways to find ways to make the High Street more accessible for everyone.

The most common problems discussed were outdoor seating areas, and shop advertising boards and parked bicycles blocking pathways, but also other people’s attitudes to those with disabilities.

David Mantle, 45, from north Watford, has MS and uses a mobility scooter when he goes into town.

He said: “I don’t want to ruin people’s fun but let’s make it easier for disabled people walking up and down town. I have enough trouble keeping control of myself, never mind other people.”

David said being diagnosed with MS changed his life, but that he also discovered how “wrapped up” people are in their own lives.

“Everyone is in too much of a rush,” he said. “They are looking at their mobile phones and end up in your basket. It’s very difficult to know what to do to make people aware.

“Bringing up all these problems means if something can be done, it will be beneficial, not just for disabled people.”

Leigh Hutchings, 49, from Cassio Road, Watford, is registered blind and walks through town with the help of his guide dog Archie.

He said shopkeepers could help by putting street signs in the same place every time, so they don’t become obstacles to avoid.

Laura Packwood, 47, from Stanmore and a member of Watford CVS and Watford Disability Forum, has partial sight and hearing, and said she no longer walks the High Street without assistance.

She said: “People don’t know how to react. I cannot see them until they’re right in front of me and then it’s too late. You get very disorientated if you cannot see or hear very well. It gets very confusing.”

Mayor Dorothy Thornhill joined licensing manager Jeffrey Leib and Highways representative David Eaglesham on the walk, where they each experienced being blind by using blacked-out glasses.

She said: “We all think we’re aware but there’s nothing like physically restricting your mobility and eyesight to make you think. People here suffer real disadvantages but just get on with life. It’s so encouraging and uplifting.”

An action plan will now be drawn up following the group’s suggestions, before changes are implemented and monitored over the coming months.

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