MADAM,

In January 2014 I recall writing to the Beacon to thank the majority of traders who had complied voluntarily with the policy of safe passage for pedestrians after a reminder had been issued.

Unfortunately their compliance was short-lived. As one trader extended further on to the pavement without repercussions from the council so others did likewise until eventually the centre of Monmouth reverted back to an obstacle course.

The sad reality is that as more people are now living longer, an increasing number are unable to access Monmouth town centre safely in their senior years because it is too hazardous for them as their eyesight and mobility gradually become impaired.

Obstacles that are fixed can usually be tolerated but those that are mobile can be problematical. The stress caused by street clutter, narrow and uneven pavements in some parts of town, with little or no room to be accompanied, particularly when carrying shopping and especially at busy times, means that older people often stay away, preferring to shop elsewhere in more user-friendly environments. They miss out on the social experience of shopping in Monmouth that is enjoyed by others. It is not uncommon to experience tutting from impatient people behind them or accidentally being knocked by inconsiderate people overtaking them. In a town claiming to be a caring town, certain traders and their supporters should hang their heads in shame at their apparent oblivion to reality.

Perhaps the general public doesn’t realise that, had the traders proved they could have been trusted to self-regulate a workable scheme to comply with the Highways Act, the likelihood is the policy revision that led to the introduction of charges for a licensing scheme would not have occurred. Fees would now be required to recuperate the cost of administering the licensing scheme and not for the purpose of making money for the council as seems to be a common misunderstanding. It is hoped that a sensible solution will be found to resolve this situation amicably.

Angela Hoyle

(Monmouth)