A LOCAL politician is leading the call for improved disability access to a picturesque coastal pathway in Donaghadee.
Alderman Mark Brooks has called on the council to improve access along the Rough Commons walkway and bridge following concerns raised by local residents.
Mr Brooks experienced first hand the difficult terrain when visited the walkway with good friend Josie Henly, who lives with the condition cerebral palsy, and her dog Charlie.
The elected representative has welcomed plans by the local authority to carry out a review of the site that will ‘consider the practicalities in line with the terrain’.
Highlighting the need for improved access Mr Brooks said: “On the Second Commons, or locally known as the Rough Commons, there is a natural path which winds its way along the coast and past a beautiful little hidden bay.
“It leads to a bridge which provides a walkway over a stream and waterfall which flows into the sea. This is a hidden treasure very well known to locals and used regularly by dog walkers, swimmers and runners .
“It was brought to my attention that the bridge is difficult to access with a large gap between the ground and structure. It is awkward and dangerous to everyone but impossible for anyone with a disability.
“I challenged my friend Josie Henly who has cerebral palsy and regularly walks her dog mostly in council parks to attempt to tackle the bridge. One look and it was a no.”
Mr Brooks said that as the area fell under the council’s responsibility he had written to the council’s director of parks asking for action to be taken to improve access.
A council spokeswoman said council officers are aware of the request to improve access to the site.
“A review of the site will be carried out and will consider the practicalities in line with the terrain,” she said.
“Officers will make an assessment in accordance with Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) regulations and will take any appropriate actions.”
