A PUSH from the Bathurst Regional Access Committee (BRAC) to make more businesses accessible has resulted in an annual grants allocation being fully expended for the first time.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
In July, the Western Advocate reported that at least 81 businesses in the Bathurst central business district were inaccessible.
The figure was discovered by then BRAC chairman Bob Triming when he and his wife were delivering pamphlets about the Bathurst Access Improvement for Small Business grants.
His determination to get the information out to business owners about the grants and importance of accessibility helped to generate a great response during the application process.
"I think he's very much the reason for people applying, because a lot of people don't realise [the money] is there," newly-elected BRAC chairwoman Irene Hancock said.
At last week's council meeting, five businesses had their applications approved and were awarded $3000 each from the $15,000 available.
The successful applicants were Neonails, John Fitzpatrick Constructions, the Oxford Hotel, Crago Mill and Martha Gelin/Bathurst Real Estate.
Full details of their projects are below:
- Neonails - sought funds for a drive-through platform lift to ensure accessibility for all.
- John Fitzpatrick Constructions - sought funds for construction of accessible parking and associated concrete works in the entry forecourt area.
- Oxford Hotel - sought funds to replace existing glass door with an automatic door.
- Crago Mill - sought funds for drive through platform lift to ensure accessibility for all.
- Martha Gelin/Bathurst Real Estate - sought funds for ramp and automatic door to ensure accessibility for all.
A second application from Neonails was not considered due to the number of applicants received.
Ms Hancock said the various projects approved to receive grants will make a difference to people in the community.
"There's ramps, there's a lift, all of which are very beneficial to someone with a disability," she said.
The access grants for small businesses are available once every financial year.
Successful applicants can receive a grant from Bathurst Regional Council up to $5000 on a dollar-for-dollar basis.
Businesses are encouraged to apply for money that can be used to execute projects to make their premises more accessible.
Ms Hancock noted that ramps can make a big difference, saying that there would be a lot of functions that she, as someone in a wheelchair, wouldn't be able to attend if it weren't for ramps being available.
"Ramps in lots of ways are some of the most beneficial, and least expensive, ways of getting over stairs," she said.
"They also save businesses from having to redesigns their entrances."
Any applications made for grants are assessed by BRAC, which then makes recommendations to council on which ones should receive funding, with council to make the final decision.