A vital charity which helps Bracknell shoppers with mobility issues have issued an assurance to customers after worries surrounding the shops future have risen.

Shopmobility is a charity based in Princess Square in Bracknell town centre, providing wheelchairs and scooters for hire to disabled shoppers.

When requested, members of the public can request mobility aids at meet and greet points at both the High Street Car Park and Princess Square car park after their arrival.

Following the news that Bracknell’s High Street carpark will be demolished, Shopmobility members contacted the News fretting over the future of the service.

A resident who does not wish to be named said: “This is a vital service that many disabled shoppers couldn’t live without. We rely on being able to hire one of the scooters so we are able to do our shopping.

“Personally, it would be impossible for me to walk around the town so Shopmobility is essential.

“Removing the collection point at the high street car park may affect a lot of people.”

The Bracknell News contacted Shopmobility who provided a reassurance that there will still be a meet and greet/collection point and services within the Princess Square carpark. 

The manager at Shopmobility Bracknell, Becky, said: “Members don’t need to worry. Although the point at the High Street carpark is being removed we still have the Princess Square car park Meet and Greet point.

“We have always had the two areas to accommodate people who park in both carparks but we will still be open for people who need our services.

“This isn’t affecting us in any way.”

Bracknell Forest Council has been working with shops within the town who may be affected by the loss of the car park. This includes Shopmobility.

Andrew Hunter, executive director: place, planning and regeneration, said: “Discussions have taken place between the council, Bracknell Regeneration Partnership and Shopmobility to ensure suitable access for Shopmobility users.

"Currently Shopmobility customers park in High Street and Princess Square car parks.  There is sufficient space in Princess Square car park to accommodate Shopmobility customers, with access directly from the car park via a lift to the Shopmobility unit.  We are also working with local transport providers to ensure access to the service from other parts of the town centre.

“We will closely monitor the situation when High Street car park closes to resolve any access issues should they arise.”