Labour councillor and RAF veteran Rob Evans submitted a request in early October for a ramp and handrail to be installed to help those unable to climb the steps leading to the Cenotaph in the grounds of the Old Llanelli Town Hall. The council turned down the request, citing short notice before this year’s commemorations.
Cllr Evans said he was disappointed by the decision, describing access to the site as “a matter of dignity and respect” for veterans. “They should put a temporary ramp in as soon as possible, and most definitely before this year’s Week of Remembrance,” he said. “A permanent solution could then be installed before next year.”
Labour town councillor Shaun Greaney also supported the call, saying he “could not understand” why the request had been refused. Llanelli Town Council leader David Darkin added that improving access for disabled veterans was consistent with the council’s commitments under the Armed Forces Covenant and the Disability Act.
A spokesperson for Carmarthenshire County Council said the authority had received the request at short notice and was unable to complete the necessary assessments and safety checks in time for this year’s commemorations.
“We are fully committed to improving accessibility at our public memorials,” the spokesperson said. “We will review options for a permanent solution following Remembrance events.”
Local councillors have urged that the review be completed well before next year’s commemorations.
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