A significant rally is set to take place outside Wells Town Hall on December 7, as individuals who depend on mobility aids, including wheelchairs and mobility scooters, and those with visual or hearing impairments, come together to call for safer pavements in the city.

The rally, titled 'Proper Pavements for Wells', is a call to action for city leaders to address the challenges less able residents face in navigating the city's pavements.

The event will include the presentation of a survey conducted by Wells residents Theo van Hensbergen, Brian Clarke, and Robert Payne, highlighting the difficulties faced by less able pavement users. The survey assessed issues like the height of drop kerbs and pavement conditions, revealing several areas of concern.

The rally expects attendance from city and county councillors, and the organisers hope the survey's findings will lead to concrete actions.

Somerset Council, responsible for pavements, will have representatives including Councillor Mike Rigby and Councillor Tessa Munt present to receive a copy of the report.

The Wells Streets Accessibility Survey 2023 aims to shed light on the struggles of people with mobility disabilities, suggesting that the city's pavements and streets significantly impede independent mobility.

The draft report indicates an "indifference to the needs of our less mobile citizens". It suggests solutions like re-zoning certain streets for pedestrian prioritisation and allocating more parking bays for disabled use.

While the report acknowledges some accessible services and recent improvements, it emphasises the need for prioritising further enhancements, despite Somerset Council's financial constraints.

The full report will be available online and at Wells Library for public reading and download. The rally, starting at 2 pm on December 7, is open to anyone wishing to support the cause.

Theo urges the community to show their support, saying, "We want to show the impact of these issues on many of us. Please don't ignore us." A dedicated Facebook page for the campaign will be launched soon, and supporters can also contact the organisers at [email protected].