Taxi Driver Online

Cheltenham Racecourse defends plans for disabled drop off


​Disabled taxi users will have to rely on kind-hearted racing fans to push them up the hill at this year’s Gold Cup.

Cheltenham Racecourse bosses have said they cannot allow taxis to drop off people directly outside the main entrance because it will cause traffic gridlock as thousands of people flock to the town’s blue ribbon event.

Instead, they will have to be left at the normal taxi drop-off point further down the hill – and ask members of the public for help if they need it.

The move has provoked outrage among disability campaigners.

Borough councillor Barbara Driver, a member of Cheltenham Disability Forum, said: “I think it’s outrageous really. There must be some special provision for disabled people who come by taxi.

“I understand those with blue badges will be able to park, but a lot of people will choose taxis for the convenience or because they have no choice.”

“It seems very short-sighted not to let people be dropped off outside the door. How you can say you will rely on other people to get them there is beyond me.”

More than 65,000 people are expected to visit Cheltenham for Gold Cup week from March 16 to 19.

In an average year, fans arrive at the racecourse in 30,000 cars, 2,000 coaches and 50 stretch limos. Taxi drivers in the town have consistently reported doing more business in Festival week than at any other time of the year.

The issue of disabled parking at the racecourse was raised at a meeting between taxi drivers, racecourse bosses and representatives from Cheltenham Borough Council.

Racecourse spokesman Andy Clifton said it was simply a question of practicality.

“The situation is that there is no way we can allow taxis to come right up to the main entrance because they will not be able to turn around,” he said.

“We have got tens of thousands of people visiting and if the roads were to become blocked it would cause a real problem. The taxi drop-off point is no more than 100 yards away from the entrance.”

“If there are any disabled taxi customers who need help, there will be plenty of racegoers more than willing to assist.”

http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/gloucestershireheadlines/Cheltenham-Racecourse-defends-plans-disabled-drop/article-1798312-detail/article.html

_________________
Think of how stupid the average person is, and realize half of them are stupider than that.
George Carlin