Wheely good news for disability access in South Downs!
March 13, 2024
Off-road mobility scooters unveiled last March have been put through their paces hundreds of times over the past year.
Scores of people have enjoyed exploring the landscape on the four-wheeled scooters, which can cover all types of terrain and are aimed at helping people with restricted mobility to make the most of the countryside and its breathtaking views.
The scooters have been used over 150 times at Seven Sisters Country Park, more than 50 times at Hogmoor Inclosure at Bordon, and 149 times at Queen Elizabeth Country Park, near Waterlooville.
The project was funded by a £174,000 Defra grant to help more people access the National Park.
The scooters have also been available for hire from Cadence Cycle Café, in Cocking, and 15 people with limited mobility have enjoyed exploring the South Downs Way.
Bay and Eastbourne Rollers put together a video showcasing their experience of using the scooters and it can be watched here.
The group said: “There’s much to see as you wander along, beautiful scenery and lots of wildlife. It’s absolutely fantastic!”
Claire Onslow, who manages Seven Sisters Country Park, added: “We know that the provision of the scooters has helped visitors revisit the park after many years of not being able to due to mobility constraints. This has included keen birdwatchers who have appreciated being able to spend time in the park again. I’m told the availability of a scooter also enabled a visitor to join an Sussex Wildlife Trust birdwatching day here so that’s fabulous!”
For more information on scooters and inclusive equipment for hire across the National Park, visit www.southdowns.gov.uk/all-abilities/inclusive-equipment-for-hire/