We have received the following letter from a reader, relating to parking in the dedicated disabled car park, near Cumberland House Surgery. The letter is shared here in full.
Hi everyone,
This is a genuine and heartfelt request regarding the small Blue Badge parking bay on High Street in Stone, next to Cumberland House Surgery, beside the dry cleaners and opposite the pizza place.
Over recent weeks we have seen the bay used:
• As a parent and child space, without displaying a badge
• By people popping into the dry cleaners
• By individuals running across for pizza collections
• By people parking while they go into town
On several of these occasions, we have been unable to park there ourselves and have had to use the Crown Street car park across the road instead. Crossing the road from there, particularly on a busy High Street, is not simple when mobility is limited and every step is painful.
For many people who rely on Blue Badges, their bodies are not working as they should. Some live with autoimmune disease, degenerative conditions, or chronic pain where muscles are breaking down and movement is extraordinarily difficult. What may look like a short walk for others can feel overwhelming and physically draining.
The Blue Badge bay is not there for convenience. It exists because for some people it is essential.
If you do not need the space and do not display a valid badge, please consider leaving it free. Even a short stop can make a significant difference to someone whose body is already fighting every step.
Stone is a caring community. We know most people simply may not realise the impact. Thank you for your understanding and kindness.
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2 comments
Margie
I too am like David. How I wish I could go back 4 years when I could walk and shop without a problem. Yet I still and must try to exercise. The blue badge is a godsend and the spaces must be kept free. Perhaps the dry cleaners and takeaways could help by displaying signs on their doors? I find the people of Stone mostly caring and considerate towards me with my stick. It’s just the few self centred people who let the town down.
David
I have a disabled badge and sometimes if I feel I can walk a little, I don’t use it providing I can park close enough without and !I try to have a little exercise. Howeve, I too have seen people not using a badge but parking on disabled places. Years ago I did it a few times, but it does make me realise now how abused these spaces are. There are so many more cars on the road and people always in a rush especially when I see really disabled people struggle so much- even to get out of the car yet alone walk! I feel so sorry for them and try not to park in the closest disabled spot if I feel I can walk that day. I try to be considerate to those far worse off than I am at 80 years old.