Disabled parking victory

A father with three disabled children who all use wheelchairs has won a three-year battle for a dedicated parking space outside his home.

Dad-of-five Abdul Rashid (77) moved to Roundthorn Road, Oldham, four years ago after yellow lines in near-by Waterloo Street meant he could not park outside his own house.

At first he was able to park outside the front door of his new home, which is on busy road, near a bus stop and shops. But Oldham Council announced plans to install a zebra crossing, zig-zag lines, railings and bollards in front of his home.

Ward Councillor Aqeel Salamat helped Mr Rashid in his fight to get a disabled bay installed.

And he said: “I think it is one of the longest and hardest pieces of case work I have had to do.

“It has been very complicated, writing to officers, we have had site visits, been to see the council and spoken to highways officers.

“Originally, he would have had no access.

“The new scheme is not ideal, but I am glad to have helped.”

Mr Rashid’s sons Wajid (28) and Majid (35) and daughter Hinnah (20) live in the specially-adapted house and all three need wheelchairs.