Partnership working helps improve accessibility in Malvern community

A joint effort between local councillors, Worcestershire County Council and ourselves has led to the installation of new dropped kerbs along Elgar Avenue in Malvern, improving safety and accessibility for residents with mobility challenges.  

The project began after Ron, one of our customers and a mobility scooter user, raised concerns at a community support session hosted at The Help Centre at Malvern Town Football Club.  Ron explained the difficulties disabled residents and parents with pushchairs faced when crossing Elgar Avenue, with steep kerbs creating safety risks.  

Recognising the issue, our Community Engagement Officer Nick Richardson contacted Councillor Marilyn Birks, Mayor of Malvern, and former County Councillor Beverley Nielsen to explore solutions.  Following a site visit involving Ron, the councillors and Worcestershire County Council’s highways officer Tanya Crake, the request for dropped tactile kerbs was approved and later supported by County Councillor Paul Bennett, who helped ensure the work was completed.  

In total, 10 kerbs have been installed – five on each side of the road – funded through the County Council’s local councillor budget.  

Ron, who regularly travels along Elgar Avenue to reach the local shops and Malvern Town Football Club, said: “This is great news for those of us who struggle with disabilities or use mobility scooters, it’s going to make a huge difference to my life and to many others.  It’s wonderful to see something positive happen that improves safety and independence.”  

Councillor Marilyn Birks, Mayor of Malvern, said: “This was a real example of partnership working in action.  Thanks to the persistence of residents like Ron and the collaboration between Platform Housing Group and Worcestershire County Council, a small change has made a big difference.  I’m delighted the work has been completed so quickly.”  

Nick Richardson, our Community Engagement Officer said: “I’m so pleased we were able to work together to get this issue resolved.  Having previously used crutches after an operation, I know first hand how challenging it can be to navigate uneven pavements.  This project shows the power of community voices and what can be achieved when residents and partners work together.”  

The improvement supports our commitment to creating inclusive, accessible communities where residents can live safely and independently.    

Photo caption : New dropped kerbs along Elgar Avenue in Malvern have now been installed