A step in the wrong direction (From Barry And District News)

A step in the wrong direction

WORRIED Barry residents have met with Vale AM Jane Hutt to voice concerns over the closure of a vital access route.

Locals met the Welsh health secretary after Associated British Ports (ABP) closed the steps running between Clive Road and the Waterfront on October 1.

They hope that enlisting the help of Ms Hutt, and a 100 plus signature petition, may result in a reversal of the decision.

A sympathetic Ms Hutt told the News: "I met local residents, spending about 20 minutes with them at the top of the steps. During that time, more than dozen people used the steps on their way to the Island or to the shops.

"I have written to ABP expressing my concerns about this closure."

The steps linking the two areas have been used for decades and provide a safe passage for people.

Ms Hutt added: "The local people want to keep the pathway, between the Island and the town, open to ensure access for day-to-day needs and emergencies, especially when the causeway is blocked by high tides.

"In addition, many people on the Island do not have access to a car so this is a vital route for them to the doctor, chemist and supermarket, which are not on the Island."

Graham Gwilym, 68, of Clive Road, agrees. He said: "I worked on the docks for 37 years and the steps have been used for as long as I can remember. We are irate ABP closed them without even telling anyone."

ABP spokesman, Kevin Francis, said: "The major player in our decision to close the steps is tightened health and safety legislation. There is an alternative route across the West Pond leading to the Barry Island car park. It is slightly longer for residents of Clive Road, but the steps are not designed for human traffic. I am meeting with Jane Hutt and I will listen to what she has to say."

Ms Hutt will be meeting with Kevin Francis on Wednesday, October 9.