Harrogate council to take over running of Harrogate Shopmobility scheme 19 Jan 2010
18
January 2010
A scheme to help people with physical difficulties do their shopping in Harrogate is to be taken over by the local council.
The Harrogate Shopmobility scheme was set up in 1996 and has been operated by a number of dedicated trustees including local church congregations and Harrogate Brigantes Rotary Club but with increasing support from Harrogate Borough Council.
The council entered into a formal partnership with the trustees in 2004 and more of the Shopmobility scheme has been integrated into the council's parking and concessionary fares service.
Councillor Don Mackenze, Cabinet Member for Planning and Transport, has approved the transfer to the council saying this will make sure that the service, which is well used by Shopmobility members, conference delegates and other visitors to the town, can be secured for the future.
He added: "Given the number years served by the trustees, the introduction of more disability legislation and the need for long term investment in the equipment, both partners have agreed to this formal transfer.
I would like to offer my thanks to past and present trustees who have given many hours of dedicated effort to the scheme's success."
The council will inherit eight motorised scooters and three electric wheelchairs which are relatively new and have been regularly serviced.
Replacements will be provided on a rolling programme from the council's parking service.
Chairman of the Harrogate Shopmobility Trustees, Peter Dawson, said:
"The council and its officers have always been very supportive of Harrogate Shopmobility and an increasingly active partner in a service which has contributed so much useful service to the community.
The trustees are very pleased that the council has agreed to take over the entire running and management of the scheme.
Further information is available from:
Councillor Don Mackenzie is available for comment on 01423 872211 or 07957 304109.
Media contact:
Lynne Mee, Communications and Media Manager, 01423 556022 email
lynne.mee@harrogate.gov.uk or
mobile 07525 987921 or 07884 226409