Wrexham: Councillor says residents living like "prisoners"

Earlier this week, the Leader reported on concerns being raised over the safety of residents at the Springfield accommodation in Wrexham. 

Problems have arisen with the lift at the sheltered housing over the past six months, with residents getting stuck in the elevator and needing to be rescued by the fire service. 

Marc Jones

Now Councillor Marc Jones, of the Grosvenor Ward in Wrexham has voiced his concerns, saying residents are "prisoners" in their own homes. 

Cllr Jones added: "I've been liaising with residents, their families and the council on this matter for the past couple of weeks.

"There's a fundamental problem with the lift that means it's out of order more times than it's working, meaning that residents with mobility problems on the first and second floors are effectively prisoners in their own flats.

"There have been instances with residents being trapped in the lift and also suffering falls while trying to use the stairs.

"There have been issues for the last six months and the lift company appears unable to repair it. If it's not possible to repair the lift, then it's got to be replaced."

In addition to Cllr Jones, Wrexham's Member of the Senedd Lesley Griffiths has also been contacted by residents at Springfield and says it is "imperative" the lift is fixed.

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Lesley Griffiths added: “Some of the residents who live at Springfield have contacted me regarding the faulty lift. I am told the lift has been out of order on many occasions, at least once a week, sometimes more, and although a lift engineer visits, the problems persist.

“It is imperative a reliable and functioning lift service is available to ensure equal access and safety for all Springfield’s residents and visitors.

“The sheltered accommodation is the responsibility of the local authority and I have written to Wrexham Council urging them to find a satisfactory solution as soon as possible.”

Lead member for housing at Wrexham Council Cllr David Bithell said: “We have received complaints about a faulty lift and are currently looking at the issues raised by our contract holders.”