Wheelchair user unable to enter Canford Park SANG

West Howe resident George Ransome tried to gain access to the Canford SANG (Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace) just off Magna Road but was unable to open and get through a kissing gate.

Canford Park SANG was created on the site of the former Canford Magna golf course, which closed in 2016. It features walking routes, a dog exercise area and access to the River Stour. The SANG is privately owned and formed part of a major home development.

However, its access for those with disabilities has been called into question by 46-year-old George.

He told the Echo: “I try to pride myself on being as active as I can, so I enjoy getting out. On a lot of council land there are radar kissing gates which let wheelchairs through automatically and close again. The one at Canford SANG is just a normal gate which people like me can’t enter.

Access gate to Canford Park SANG

“To get to the SANG I’d have to ride on a road with no pathways, then onto log road and then a rammed car park. I feel they just forgot about disabled people and that we’re the lowest on the priority list.”

George said other parks in the area, such as Turbary Common, were positive examples where gating had been expanded to accommodate wheelchair or mobility scooter users.

“There are too few disabled people around to shout and speak up about it this sort of thing.

“I’ve given up being angry about it, I just feel let down really. Being in a wheelchair, you always have to fight your corner, often just to do normal stuff.”

Guidelines from Natural England referring to the creation of SANG land describes required features which includes, “car parks that are easily accessible, well-signposted and offer safe pedestrian routes”.

Representatives for Canford Park SANG have been approached to comment.

BCP Council is also in the process of removing restrictive gates across the conurbation for freedom of access to all.