Anger over closure of access path near stores in Rhyl

The access path, by B&Q, on Clwyd Retail Park on the outskirts of Rhyl, was said to have been “dug up overnight”.

Savills, managing agent of Clwyd Retail Park – home to other stores including Sainsbury’s, Pets at Home and Iceland – confirmed the path next to B&Q was closed as the ramp’s gradient failed to meet the required standard. There is an existing path, with disability access, by Pizza Hut.

There is an existing path. Picture: Phil Micheu

But Cllr Jeanette Chamberlain-Jones, of Rhyl South ward, said the path is “far too narrow” to accommodate mobility scooters or large pushchairs or prams.

She said: “There was no notification of the closure of the path. Residents brought it to my attention that is had suddenly closed and they were unable to gain entrance safely.

“They state the main highway entrance was too busy and lacked drop curbs in some areas and were frightened they may tip over.

“Residents have been using the B&Q access since the retail park was opened. No accidents have happened there to my knowledge.

“The path by Pizza Hut is too narrow and difficult for disabled people to negotiate. Savills have clearly not investigated the Pizza Hut pathway before closing the one at B&Q.”

She added: “I would ask when they last made a visit to the site.

“I have asked officers of Denbighshire County Council to investigate and ask why the path had been closed.

“I would like to see the closed pathway reinstated so disabled users can have a safe pathway into Clwyd Retail Park.”

Savills said: “We can confirm the access path adjacent to B&Q has been closed for health and safety reasons as the ramp’s gradient failed to meet the required standard.

“An existing path with full disability access remains operational by Pizza Hut.

“We continue to work closely with the council to ensure customers can access the park both safely and easily.”

A spokesman for Denbighshire County Council said: “We have contacted Savills and are looking to resolve the matter.”