Rustington disabled ‘imprisoned’ due to poor pavements

Residents of the St Bridget’s home, in Ilex Close, have warned the council of the dangers wheelchair users face when travelling down Sea Lane’s pavements.

The campaigners argue the state of the pavements are “inadequate and unsafe for disabled people to use”, leaving many concerned about their safety.

Christine Markham, mother of one of the campaigners, Zoe Markham, said: “There are points in the path that become so narrow, people in wheelchairs are at risk of toppling into the road.

“Some of the kerbs are also too steep and loose gravel is a real hassle to get through. Whenever my daughter goes into Rustington, I have to accompany her because she is so scared to go down Sea Lane.”

Campaigners voiced their opinions to a contingent of county councillors, parish councillors, highways officials and community safety officers during a staged walk from the Leonard Cheshire Disability home on Friday.

The one-mile, circular walk from Broadmark Lane, along The Street and back to St Bridget’s down Sea Lane demonstrated the everyday problems wheelchair users face simply getting into the centre of Rustington.

Resident Tim Williamson said: “A simple stroll to the pub or church is something most people take for granted.

“But if you’re in a wheelchair, the short trip up Sea Lane to the Lamb or to the parish church is fraught with danger.”

Christine added: “County councillor Dr James Walsh commented that he has lived here for years but saw the area with new eyes today – he has never looked down at his feet so often.”

A county council spokeswoman said: “We understand some of the problems they are encountering and, subject to budgetary restraints, we will do what we can to improve the access where this is both practical and possible.”

The council advised there was an alternative route, via Broadmark Lane, which avoids Sea Lane altogether. However, residents argue this effectively doubles the distance.

Julie Stainton, from Leonard Cheshire Disability, said: “This limits the people of St Bridget’s to one route in and out of Rustington. “If Broadmark Lane is closed, which in the past it has been, people are effectively locked in a prison cell. This walk was a real success in highlighting the issues we face.”

The county council is now considering future works on Sea Lane’s pavements.