A parking row has erupted after a Welsh council car park removed its disabled parking spaces.
Monmouthshire Council made changes to Tiverton Place Car Park in Abergavenny which saw hatched yellow markings surrounding disabled bays replaced with ordinary white lines.
Disabled motorists have reported being left bewildered and unable to get into their vehicles following the changes.
The dispute in has now escalated to the Welsh Parliament, with a Senedd Member now demanding action from both local and national government.
Laura Anne Jones MS has hit out at the council’s approach and called for Wales-wide protections for accessible parking.
“Accessible parking is vital for ensuring people with mobility challenges can shop, attend appointments and take part in local events,” she said.
“Removing these spaces reflects a worrying disregard for the needs of our disabled community. Instead of creating an inclusive environment, this decision risks marginalising some of our most vulnerable residents.”
“I have called on the council to rectify this immediately and asked the Welsh Government to make clear that disabled parking must be safeguarded across Wales.”
The dispute at Tiverton Place car park in Abergavenny has now escalated to the Welsh Parliament
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She has written to multiple councillors, urging them to consider stronger safeguards for disabled parking provision throughout Welsh towns.
The situation has sparked fears that disabled residents face discrimination and exclusion from their communities.
Daniel Biddle, the chief executive of the National Diversity, Employment and Advisory Service, has also blasted the council’s handling of the matter.
“By eliminating these essential spaces, the local council demonstrates a troubling lack of regard for the challenges faced by disabled individuals,” he said.
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Monmouthshire Council replaced hatched yellow markings surrounding disabled bays with ordinary white lines
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GOOGLE“Instead of creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, this decision sends a message that the needs of vulnerable citizens are not a priority.”
“It is crucial for local authorities to recognise the importance of accessibility and work towards solutions that support all members of our community.
“The removal of these parking spaces further marginalises those who already face significant barriers in their daily lives.
“We must advocate for change that prioritises accessibility, dignity, and respect for every individual.”
Laura Anne Jones MS has hit out at the council’s approach and called for Wales-wide protections
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Monmouthshire Council has said the changes affected only a limited portion of the car park.
A council spokesman said :“All of the spaces at the Tiverton Place car park are disabled spaces. This is clearly indicated on the tariff board on display in the car park,.
“Blue badge holders are able to park free of charge and time constraints in any bay in any Monmouthshire County Council car park.”
However, critics maintain the spaces now fail to serve their intended purpose, with some affected drivers indicating they are now less inclined to visit town centre businesses.