Archived press release

Date Published: 13/10/06

People with mobility difficulties could soon be able to do their shopping in Buckingham with greater ease. At a meeting of Aylesbury Vale District Council’s cabinet this week, members agreed in principle to introduce a part-time Shopmobilit...

People with mobility difficulties could soon be able to do their shopping in Buckingham with greater ease.

At a meeting of Aylesbury Vale District Council’s cabinet this week, members agreed in principle to introduce a part-time Shopmobility scheme in the town centre.

The proposed Shopmobility facility would be based at Cornwalls Meadow car park to serve the growing needs of people who require mobility scooters (and other selected equipment) who may not have access to such a resource.

The unit would be manned on Tuesday (market day) and Saturday from 10am to 3.30pm, although the opening times could be extended if there was sufficient demand.

AVDC has consulted Buckingham Town Council on the draft proposals and members are fully supportive of the project.

The scheme will cost £20,000 to set up and £15,000 to run each year. There is currently no capital funding allocated to this project so the council will need to consider whether the scheme is a priority for future funding.

Councillor Pam Pearce, Cabinet Member for Community Matters, said: “I’m delighted that we are a step closer to providing a Shopmobility scheme in Buckingham. The scheme would be used by lesser-abled persons who may not feel able to contemplate a town centre shopping visit at the
present time. The mobility equipment we could provide would ensure that access to Buckingham town centre is possible, so that users may enjoy the many shopping and leisure activities it has to offer.”