MEASURES have been put in place to try and improve the access issues at a Cowdenbeath store.
The B&M on the High Street has fallen victim to subsidence, which has seen the entryway deemed as "dangerous" for customers.
Cllr Darren Watt has been fighting to make the front entrance of the store safe again and while B&M has now installed signage and a bell for customers using mobility aids to be let into the store via the garden centre gate, the entrance is still unsuitable for able-bodied customers.
Sharing an update with his constituents, he said: "A Fife Council officer for Building Standards & Public Safety recently met with the health & safety officer for B&M and the store manager, and has asked that they look at a temporary access should this be a longer ongoing issue. Fife Council are awaiting a response.
"B&M Customer Services confirmed with me that they now have a sign within the window of their store that advises customers to ring the bell if in a mobility scooter/wheelchair. A member of staff would then be able to let them in via the garden centre gate.
"I appreciate measures have been put in place to improve access for disabled customers, however, the makeshift ramp is clearly not safe and fit for purpose for able-bodied customers, and proves especially challenging when exiting the store with a trolley and during spells of wet weather.
"It is my understanding there are ongoing discussions with B&M and the landowner to resolve the wider issues, but on my part, I will liaise with both Fife Council and B&M early next week, and continue to work towards a quick and sensible resolution to further improve access and enhance the overall customer experience."
B&M were unable to provide any further updates on this situation at this time.
They previously told the Times: "We’re aware of the situation and we’re working with the building landlord to identify a possible resolution.
"The safety of our customers and colleagues is paramount to us and is always the highest priority to ensure they have an enjoyable and safe shopping experience when visiting our stores."
Share