Scheme to improve access at Shrewsbury's Premier Inn hotel

The hotel in Smithfield Road has agreed to seek planning permission for a new access ramp after concerns were raised by Shropshire Disability Network.

It is hoped the new ramp will be in place by the end of spring.

The decision follows a meeting in October last year between Shropshire Disability Network (SDN) officials and hotel bosses, where concerns were raised that disabled people were required to use a back entrance to get into the building.

Ruby Hartshorn, deputy chairman for SDN, said: "We are really pleased with the discussions as they have listened to us and asked us for our thoughts on anything else that they ought to consider providing for those with a disability or long-term condition."

She added: "All of our comments were supported at the meeting and were then put forward to the relevant departments at the head office of Premier Inn as costs would be involved.

"Having taken up our plea to have a ramped entrance at the front of the hotel building, Premier Inn have now drawn up plans which we have seen and will be supporting.

"A ramped access will help everyone, not just those people who use wheelchairs and walking aids but also parents with prams, making this new building easily accessible to all."

She said: "Shropshire Disability Network will be supporting Premier Inn with their planning application to Shropshire Council.

"We are also delighted to be working together on the ongoing issues that Premier Inn have regarding parking for their patrons at the Raven Meadows multi-storey car park site, as well as drop-off issues at the hotel.

"Hopefully in the future, not only will we be able to hold an SDN meeting at Premier Inn Shrewsbury but they will be able to become a member of 'Safe Place' Shrewsbury Scheme.

"We are delighted and anticipate a conclusion on the ramped access by late spring of 2014."

John Forrest, chief operating officer for Premier Inn, said: "On behalf of Premier Inn I'd like to thank Shropshire Disability Network for their very constructive comments regarding the ramp, which subject to planning permission we aim to have in place by the end of this spring."

Mr Forrest added: "Our dialogue with Shropshire Disability Network will continue over and beyond the ramp planning application.

"We are delighted with the support they are giving us on this project."