Disabled spaces removed as part of efforts to improve car park safety

Increase in numbers using the Connect Village service

Three disabled parking spaces have been removed from a supermarket car park in Ramsey to facilitate a new bus stop.

Ramsey Town Commissioners says it's after Shoprite raised safety concerns due to the increase in the number of people using the Bus Vannin dial-a-ride service.

Following a meeting between the three parties a decision was made to create a turning and waiting area for minibuses, where disabled parking spaces were, in an area which does not impede traffic.

Local resident Eric Corkish told Manx Radio's Mannin Line he's unhappy with the changes:

Ramsey Commissioners has told Manx Radio: "It was recognised that the disabled spaces at the front are at a premium therefore the spaces on the ends of the first three rows opposite to the entrance will be re-designated as disabled spaces to compensate for the loss of spaces within the bus turning area. 
 
"Work has been programmed to take in to account the stores opening hours and not to impact on people trying to use the store. The work is weather dependant; however, it is hoped that the disabled bays will be relocated no later than the end of this week.
 
"Although the solution results in the loss of three of the short-term parking spaces, the use of the bus service is becoming increasingly popular and had started to impede movement within the car park. The proposal provides a safer means of car park access for all concerned."