Disabled Access - Information Request

Some of our supporters have mobility problems so the Freedom of Information request below is vital for them: -

Dear Sir/Madam,

Freedom Of Information Request - Bryn Euryn Local Nature Reserve

Further to the proposals by the Countryside Department to change public open space into grazing land; this is a request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

I understand an ‘informal’ meeting of the Bryn Euryn Management Advisory Group was held on Monday 20th July, 2009 at which it was decided to proceed with a feasibility study to change public open space into grazing land.

Please send me the following information: -

· Confirmation that the needs and rights of users of Bryn Euryn with mobility issues were considered when the gate adjacent to Llys Euryn was erected. Previously there was no gate allowing the public open space to be readily accessed by users of mobility scooters.
Confirmation that the proposed new fencing and gates will comply with the following: -
The Disability Discrimination Act 1995
The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, with specific reference to the requirement for local authorities, when authorising the erection of stiles, gates or other works on footpaths or bridleways to have regard to the needs of people with mobility problems.
That the design of any new gates will comply with BS8300 (2009).
I would like the above information to be provided to me in electronic format if available otherwise paper

I understand that under the act, I should be entitled to a response within 20 working days of your receipt of this email. I would be grateful if you could confirm in writing/email that you have received this request.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Council response below, we don't feel it really answers the questions fully and the information we have seen from the CCW says gates will be 'kissing gates', no use to people in mobility scooters: -


Thank you for your enquiry below.
1) The gate adjacent to Bryn Euryn cottage was installed about 10 years
ago in connection with woodland management works on the wider Local
Nature Reserve. The gate was installed primarily to prevent any use of
Bryn Euryn by off-road motorcycles and other unauthorised vehicles.
Access by those with mobility issues was not specifically addressed at
the time, as it was considered that the wider topography and terrain
presented particular access difficulties. Subsequently however,
specific access requests have been addressed positively. The
specification of the gate will be reviewed as part of the feasibility
exercise currently being undertaken in respect of the potential to
introduce grazing to Bryn Euryn.

2) There is no information on this, as yet, as there is no specific
proposal for new gates and fencing. However, these items are being
considered as part of the feasibility exercise referred to in 1 above.
The specification of any gates is to be addressed within the exercise,
and due regard would be given to relevant legislation and standards.


If for whatever reason you are unhappy with the response please contact
us direct by e-mail or by post addressed to Conwy County Borough
Council, Information Regulations Unit, Bodlondeb, Conwy, LL32 8DU.
Uned Reoliadau Gwybodaeth/Information Regulations Unit
Cyngor Bwrdeistef Sirol CONWY County Borough Council
E-Bost / E-Mail: info-regs.unit@conwy.gov.uk