A recent study has ranked Wells among the most accessible cities in the UK, but for many residents, the reality paints a very different picture. While the study, conducted by mobility products retailer CareCo, highlights the city’s accessible attractions, restaurants, and parking, local campaigners argue that Wells’ streets and pavements fail to meet basic accessibility standards, leaving disabled residents struggling to navigate the city.
The survey, which placed Wells sixth on a list of the UK’s most accessible cities, assessed factors such as accessible restaurants, toilets, and car parks. However, these metrics overlook significant issues faced by residents, such as uneven pavements, poorly designed crossings, and a lack of continuity in infrastructure. Brian Clarke, a resident with motor neurone disease, has been at the forefront of efforts to push for change.
“The survey describes in clear detail the poor and discriminatory pavement and road infrastructure in Wells,” Mr Clarke said. “It places me and others at considerable risk compared with able-bodied people.”
Mr Clarke presented a petition signed by over 1,400 residents to Somerset Council in September, demanding urgent action to address the findings of the Wells pavements accessibility survey completed in late 2023. Campaigners say the council’s inaction has left disabled residents feeling ignored and discriminated against.
While the CareCo study praised Wells for its 32 accessible attractions, including the cathedral and Wells & Mendip Museum, campaigners argue that accessibility at specific sites does not address the broader challenges of navigating the city as a whole.
Somerset Council has apologised for delays in responding to the survey and has pledged to take action. Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for transport and waste services, said: “We are setting up a task and finish group with yourselves, our officers, and Wells City Council to identify work which will be prioritised and implemented in the coming year.”
CareCo founder Will Harrison acknowledged that accessibility across the UK still needs improvement. “It’s positive to see the UK is accessible to most, but that doesn’t mean we should stop pushing to ensure everywhere is as accessible as it possibly can be,” he said.
For campaigners like Mr Clarke, the recognition Wells has received highlights a disconnect between perception and reality. They hope the ranking will push Somerset Council to address the serious accessibility issues that continue to impact disabled residents in the city.