There will be a designated pick up and drop off point in Dowell Street car park, Honiton, if proposals to reintroduce parking charges are given the all-clear next week.
Honiton Town Council wants to make it safer for those with mobility problems to access The Beehive following an incident in the car park last month.
In a report due to go before councillors at a meeting next Monday (September 9), it is stated that an elderly member of the public fell in the car park just as a car was reversing.
The incident followed a Honiton Memory Cafe event and those on the scene all happened to be nurses.
“As a result of prompt action by a few people the gentleman was not seriously injured, suffering from cuts and bruising, but suffered no other physical injuries. He was, however, badly shaken up,” the report states.
It further reveals that the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) was on the scene in 11 minutes.
The man involved in the incident is said to be making a good recovery and is being supported by Heather Penwarden, the Memory Cafe’s chairman.
Honiton Town Council representatives have met with Mrs Penwarden to discuss the incident and the report states it was agreed the incident ‘could not have been prevented and happened due to several contributing factors’.
The report continues: “However, it was felt that it would be helpful if there was an area identified in the car park that could be used as pick up and drop off point for people who might have difficulties in walking any distance.
“Following a discussion, the area at the bottom of the car park nearest to the furthest coach bay was considered a possible area. It currently has hatched markings painted on it.
“The clerk had a meeting with Andrew Ennis, head of EDDC’s parking team a few days later and it was agreed that this was the most suitable area.”
Councillors are being asked to note the report.
