Difficulties for wheelchair users in Newtown highlighted

Newtown’s Mayor and Deputy Mayor have taken to the streets, one in a wheelchair, to experience first-hand the challenges facing disabled people in the town.

Cllr Peter Lewington, Mayor of Newtown, and his wife, Deputy Mayor Cllr Margaret Lewington, took part in a walkaround of the town centre after being invited by a local resident concerned about accessibility and the state of pavements.

To gain a genuine perspective, Cllr Margaret Lewington travelled by wheelchair while her husband pushed, offering them both a direct insight into the daily difficulties faced by those with mobility challenges.

“It’s important to understand the concerns of all our residents,” said Cllr Peter Lewington. “This gave us a clear view of the barriers people face when getting around the town.”

Cllr Margaret Lewington, who also serves as one of the Town Council’s disability advocates, is now raising the issue with the council’s Services Committee and Powys County Council.

The findings will form part of a report being submitted to the county council as part of the Newtown Place Plan project. The report focuses on improving the condition and accessibility of pathways and cycleways under the PPST1 initiative.

Cllr Margaret has also contacted the relevant county councillor to urge action on the issue.

The move follows growing concerns among residents about uneven pavements and poor access across the town, particularly for wheelchair users, those with limited mobility, and parents with pushchairs.

The matter is highlighted in a report going to the town council at its meeting tonight.