Report from the meeting of 28 January 2010
South Ayrshire Access Panel meets on the last Thursday in each month and tackles issues relating to making the environment, facilities and services in South Ayrshire available to all its residents.
A meeting of all the Ayrshire Access Panels is to be held on Wednesday 17 March, between 2pm and 5pm at the Citadel Leisure Centre, Ayr.
With regard to planning consultations this month, the Panel were advised that the application for the door to the accessible toilet at premises in Church Street, Troon to open outwards to provide more space, has been withdrawn. There are no new planning applications this month.
The Panel were informed that an order has been made for work to start on the construction of a pedestrian controlled crossing at Hillfoot Road, Ayr. This work is expected to commence mid-February.
Panel members were asked to continue monitoring evening and weekend vehicular access to Ayr High Street. During the run-up to Christmas, Shopmobility Scooter users reported considerable difficulties crossing the High Street as traffic was busy and cars would not give way.
Panel members reported that the SDEF – Recruiting and Supporting Volunteers – Training Event was very worthwhile and informative.
The SDEF AGM took place on 10 December at Perth Concert Hall. Elections were not required since enough vacancies existed for all those interested. Michael Dunlop was accepted.
It was reported to the Panel that the Council-owned car park behind Morrison’s is full of litter and the accessible parking bays are being abused by non-disabled badge holders.
Panel members attended a meeting of the Taxi Operator's Forum and reported the introduction of a new provider for the Disability awareness training course. The Panel will preview the new course before its introduction. In addition, the Taxi Rank at Boswell Park has been temporarily suspended due to abuse by users.
An Awareness of Equalities meeting is being held at Ayr College on 29 January 2010 between 10am and 4pm.
Reports from previous meetings - November 2005 onwards - can be found in the News archive.