Blocked paths 'inaccessible' for wheelchair uses

A councillor with mobility issues said she fears for her safety because blocked pavements are forcing her to walk on the road.

Debbie Armiger, who uses a walking frame and serves the Sincil Bank area of Lincoln on the city council, said bins and cars have made it inaccessible for wheelchair and pushchair users.

The City of Lincoln Council said: "Bins and vehicles parked on pavements is a nuisance for everyone but potentially dangerous for those pedestrians who are forced off the pavement and into the road."

Mrs Armiger has urged people to only leave bins out on the right day and said the lack of space around the old terraced houses meant the number of cars was an issue.

"This estate wasn't built for multiple occupancy," she added. "There are now several cars for just one house, which hasn't helped at all.

"Taking the bins round the houses and through back alleys is inconvenient for residents, but they need to be thinking about the safety of pedestrians.

"It's infringing on our quality of life, if we can't get past we have to use the road.

"There's no way I can get round comfortably without risking my life."

Residents agreed that the blocked pavements were a problem.

Jane Wilce said: "Bin day is especially hard. I have to duck in between cars to get through with my pushchair, it's not ideal.

"I walk on the road most of the time, which is one thing with a pushchair, but I can't imagine what people in wheelchairs feel like doing that."

Student Eden Mogford-Walsh said it was "obviously dangerous".

"I see it a lot on the school run, more people have to walk on the roads", she added.

The city council has offered to help anyone struggling with bin storage.

A spokesperson said: "For those who struggle with bin storage, we encourage you to contact the council to discuss a possible solution."

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