Disabled drivers now have extra spaces where they can park their cars in Cwmbran town centre.

The six new spaces follow a report by the Disability Advice Project that suggested improvements were needed for Blue Badge Holders including better signs.

Cwmbran Centre has added four spaces in the General Rees lower car park (next to the electric car chargers) and a further two with protected rear access in the Monmouth car park. It is also improving signage to help people find spaces.

Tony Crowhurst, DAP access officer, said: “We were happy to meet with Cwmbran Centre to take them through our report and explain the impact on disabled people. We are delighted they have acted quickly to improve parking and are listening to the needs of disabled people. We hope to see more improvements in future.”

Rikki Teml, centre manager at Cwmbran Centre, said: “Our priority is to ensure Cwmbran Centre is accessible for all visitors and we have worked hard over the years to ensure our facilities meet the needs of all our users.

“We take this incredibly seriously and are continually reviewing opportunities to improve accessibility throughout our centre. Cwmbran Centre performs above the current British Car Parking Association’s best practice guidelines and we regularly employ third-party auditors to review existing provision, ensuring we continue meeting – or exceeding – these guidelines.”

Help make things better for disabled people in Torfaen

A DAP spokesperson said: “Are you interested in helping us drive change for disabled people across Torfaen?

“Why not join our Torfaen Accessibility Forum (TAF). TAF brings disabled people, carers, businesses, charities and Council members together to find ways to improve the life opportunities and experiences of disabled people. Everyone is welcome. The next TAF meeting is Wednesday 26 May. Email [email protected] to register.”