New Mills and District Access Group (NMDAG) formed in June 2004 and is open to everyone. They meet at New Mills Volunteer Centre (contact Helen Bollard, 01663 744196).

Visit the NMDAG website at accessnewmills.org.uk

What is an Access group?

NMDAG is a group of local people who are interested in improving all aspects of access to the built, transport and countryside environments within the New Mills area, including Hayfield and Chinley. Membership includes people who have various forms of disability; volunteers; carers; parents with prams and pushchairs; it is open to everyone who is interested in the issues.

Many people have difficulty getting about because of poor planning, lack of facilities or information in a form that isn't easily understood. These can be disabled people including wheelchair users, visually or hearing-impaired people, and those with learning difficulties.

Some older people are also less mobile and have problems with the built environment. Anyone who has had to juggle with pushchairs, young children and bags of shopping will also recognise the difficulties of manoeuvering through what can sometimes seem like an obstacle course.

What do Access Groups Do?

Access groups undertake a range of activities such as monitoring applications and advising developers and the local authority on access matters. They can also campaign for improved access and draw attention to problems such as uneven pavements or poor signage. Some groups produce guides to local facilities, such as cafes and restaurants or nature trails. This kind of information is particularly useful in a town such as New Mills which has many visitors.

If you have an interest in public access issues as they affect the lifestyles and choices of people with disabilities you are welcome to join us at our meetings at New Mills Volunteer Centre. We actively encourage interested members of the community to join the group and help develop an effective force to promote access and equality throughout the New Mills area.