Disabled claimants bring JR action over traffic order

Fifteen disabled people are taking legal action against a county council over a traffic order that restricts access to the centre of a town, alleging that they have been discriminated against.

The claimants, who are being advised by law firm Unity Law, are challenging a decision taken by Nottinghamshire County Council on 9 May 2012 in relation to Bridge Place in Worksop.

Judicial review proceedings over the passing of the Experimental Traffic Regulation Order were launched in the High Court last week.

Unity Law said on its website that the claimants believed they had been discriminated against on the grounds of their disability.

It added: “Despite objections by disabled individuals and Disability Nottinghamshire, the council have pressed ahead with their plans, much to the detriment of disabled people wishing to access Worksop town centre.”

Cllr Richard Jackson, Chairman of the transport and highways committee at Nottinghamshire, said the order had been introduced following a request from Bassetlaw District Council and a number of complaints from traders and members of the public. There had also been an initial period of consultation.

He added that the aim was to reduce the levels of traffic in the pedestrian area and improve the environment.
 
Cllr Jackson said: "The order came into force on 22 May 2012 and will be in place initially for six months. The experimental order could be made permanent once all comments and any objections received during the initial period have been considered. It could equally be revoked if the order is not working or creating particular hardship for users."

Nottinghamshire said views on the scheme were still welcome and should be sent to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or to Major Projects Manager, Trent Bridge House, Fox Road, Nottingham, NG2 6BJ. 

Philip Hoult