Harrogate Borough Council (HBC) has taken swift action to remove two bins from Sainsbury’s car park in Ripon, that were causing access problems for disabled people and parents with buggies and prams.

The issue was raised with both HBC and North Yorkshire County Council by Jeremy Dunford, a trustee of Ripon Disability Forum, who pointed out that the waste and recycling bins on the pavement linking The Arcade to the supermarket, were leaving little room for people in wheelchairs, or families with young children to pass safely.

The bins seen in situ before they were removed

Following their removal, Mr Dunford told the Stray Ferret:

“Getting this resolved so quickly shows the benefits of community groups and councils developing relationships to address issues in a proactive way.

“However, it does also highlight the need for greater thought being given to works so that remedial action is not then needed after the event. It is cheaper and more cost effective this way.”

Mr Dunford added:

“As always, we encourage people to raise such issues with us to try and get them resolved in the best way that is possible.”

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