Congleton's Equal Access Advisory Group has been helping to influence accessibility improvements across the town.

In recent months, the group has led or supported a number of practical developments, with efforts focused on everything from transport planning and accessible bus information to town centre inclusion and public events.

Councillor Kay Wesley said, chair of the town council's Community Committee, said: "We are so grateful to the Equal Access Group and its chair Dr Deborah Lawson for the time they spend helping us understand how to design services for people with disabilities and additional access needs.

"This is now having a broad impact, not just on the town council's activities but on other organisations providing services in Congleton.

"Many thanks to all the businesses and event organisers who have embraced the advice the group has given and used it to create more inclusive experiences for our residents."

One of the most significant recent developments has been the group's involvement in the development of Cheshire East Council's Transport Plan Strategy.

Following feedback submitted through Congleton Town Council, Cheshire East officers requested a dedicated meeting with the Equal Access Advisory Group to better understand accessibility concerns raised by disabled residents.

Dr Lawson and councillor Wesley met with Cheshire East officers to discuss the issues in more detail.

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The new look Beartown Bus timetable leaflet (Credit: CTC)

Another recent success involved Cheshire East Council's redesign of Beartown Bus timetable leaflets for services 90, 91, 92 and 93A/C.

The Equal Access Advisory Group provided detailed feedback on accessibility and readability, including colour contrast, text clarity, layout, sensory considerations and the inclusion of more diverse imagery.

The group also recommended adding clearer information for visually impaired passengers, wheelchair and pushchair users, and residents requiring alternative timetable formats.

The revised leaflet designs incorporated all of the Group's recommendations, with Cheshire East officers also agreeing to review wider document standards for future publications.

Furthermore, Congleton Live has requested specific accessibility input for this summer's Jazz & Blues Festival, while the Disability Welcome Scheme for local businesses continues to grow, with several shops expected to receive Silver Awards in the coming months.

Dr Lawson has also worked with the team at Astbury Mere Trust to develop a new Accessibility Guide for the site, which has already received positive feedback from visitors.

She said: "It has been extremely encouraging to see how many businesses and events are actively seeking to make their services more inclusive for local residents. I particularly want to recognise Cheshire East officers for being so open to discussion and genuinely committed to ensuring public transport information is as accessible as possible.

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"I would also like to thank the members of the Equal Access Advisory Group for the time, expertise and lived experience they continue to contribute. Their input and dedication are invaluable, and it is wonderful to see it making such a difference across Congleton."