A Gorokan resident is urging fellow shoppers to join her in appealing a decision by Lake Haven Shopping Centre to discontinue its mobility scooter service from July 1 due to safety concerns.
Liina Hurrell says the decision will severely affect the independence and quality of life for many elderly and mobility-challenged patrons, including her mother Ann Hurrell, who is distressed by the move.
“My mother relies on these scooters for her weekly shopping trips, and their removal will make it extremely difficult for her to navigate the shopping centre,” she said.
“The scooters provided by Lake Haven Centre are essential for her and many others, allowing them to maintain their independence and carry out their daily activities without undue stress.
“These scooters operate at walking speed, ensuring safety for all customers within the shopping centre.
“While I understand that there are risks associated with providing mobility scooters, such as potential accidents or liability concerns, I believe these risks are manageable.
“The centre can implement strict safety protocols, such as speed limits and regular maintenance checks, to mitigate these risks.
“Providing training and clear guidelines for scooter users can also help ensure safe and responsible usage.”
Hurrell said buying a personal scooter was not option for many, including her mother.
“The decision to remove the scooters will disproportionately affect the most vulnerable members of our community, making it harder for them to access essential services and participate in daily life,” she said.
“I urge Lake Haven Centre to reconsider this decision and continue providing mobility scooters for those who rely on them.
“This service is not just a convenience but a necessity for many, ensuring they can live independently and with dignity.
“I hope the community will support this cause and advocate for the needs of our elderly and mobility-challenged residents.”
Centre management advised patrons of the decision in a letter, citing ongoing safety risks as the reason.
“These vehicles, with a weight of over 200kg including driver, can be sometimes driven erratically or at excessive speed within the shopping centre.
“The risk of death or severe injury to other customers of all types, particularly children, dogs and the elderly are excessively high.
“While we do not object to anyone bringing their own scooter into the shopping centre, we are no longer able to carry the risk associated with providing this equipment to customers.”
The letter said staff would monitor personal scooters and encourage customers to operate them safely inside the centre.
“We have increased the number of wheelchairs available for hire in the centre, to ensure customers who are mobility challenged have an acceptable alternative to access retail stores,” the letter said.
“We appreciate that this may cause some distress, (but we have made) this decision for the safety of all our customers.”
Terry Collins