Flintshire Council expands recycling centre access for disabled residents

Disabled residents who use larger vehicles will be able to access Household Recycling Centres across Flintshire when waste collection rules change next year.

Flintshire County Council’s cabinet has approved a proposal led by Hawarden Mancot councillor Sam Swash to change proposed disabled access provision to HRC’s from April next year after concerns the draft plans excluded some users.

The proposed waste collection plan stated that from April 28 next year disabled residents who drive larger vehicles could qualify for a permit to access household recycling centres.

Such vehicles would usually be restricted or subject to commercial use permits. To qualify they would need to present a valid blue badge – the UK Government’s permit scheme for those with mobility issues.

Cllr Swash, supported by fellow Flintshire People’s Voice councillors Carolyn Preece, Alasdair Ibbotson and Gillian Brockley along with Liberal Democrat Andrew Parkhurst, formally called-in the proposals for review.

Cllr Swash explained: “This issue came from one of my own residents. His disability means he can only drive a larger vehicle, however he does not qualify for a blue badge.

“Under the Equalities Act the council must make reasonable adjustments to ensure equal access to services. We are proposing that the council reviews, on a case by case basis, people who are disabled but without a blue badge.

“Perhaps through receipt of a letter from their GP plus a statement from the resident that they do not have access to a smaller vehicle, permits could be issued?”

Having been recommended by the Environment and Economy Overview and Scrutiny Committee, this week Flintshire County Council’s cabinet formally voted in favour of broadening the policy.

The vehicle permit scheme will now include motability and disability vehicles and disabled residents who do not have a blue badge will be able to apply for a permit.

They will need to provide a letter from an appropriately qualified medical, health or social care professional supporting their application – such as a GP, Occupational Health Nurse, Occupational Therapist or Specialist Consultant.

Residents will also have to make a declaration that there is no other vehicle at the property that could be used for the disposal of waste at the sites, that their disability is long-term and provide an explanation as to why the vehicle is required to be used as a result of their disability.

By Alec Doyle – Local Democracy Reporter