DISABLED drivers have been warned to ignore "scaremongering" after a war of words between opposing political groups.

Liberal Democrats have lashed out against Conservative protests that orange badge holders will not be able to pass through the proposed busgate at Northgate Street, Bath.

It follows the decision of Bath and North East Somerset Council to ban permit holders from using the route, which will restrict traffic to public transport and vehicles belonging to the emergency services, the council and the Royal Mail.

Conservative councillors claimed they were "appalled" at the decision of the planning, transportation and environment committee. They have consistently opposed the busgate scheme, believing it will damage city centre trade.

Conservative councillor David Hawkins said: "Lib Dem traffic management seems to consist of shoving congestion and pollution into surrounding residential areas, which is exactly what the busgate will do.

"It will create a 24-hour bus lane on the A4 to enable buses to access the centre with greater ease from the non-existent park and ride, and now they want to make it difficult for the disabled to get into the city. This vulnerable group deserves better."

However, the Liberal Democrats have warned disabled motorists to ignore the statement - they claim the busgate will actually improve the situation.

Councillor Caroline Roberts said: "In a further attempt to discredit the experimental priority access for Northgate, local Conservatives are spreading concern amongst disabled drivers.

"In fact, disabled drivers need have no fears about the new traffic arrangements. They will be able to drive to all the places they can drive to now and there will be more convenient designated parking places than there are now.

"Council officers are still working on the details of these but Liberal Democrats are committed to making provision for the needs of those who qualify for an orange (soon to be blue) disabled driver's badge."

Cllr Roberts added: "Convenient parking spaces for disabled drivers closer to where they want to be are provided in recognition of the fact that once out of the car, they may only be able to walk a short distance.

"Wheelchair-bound people need easy access to the city centre so that their carers don't have to wheel them too far, especially in inclement weather.

"The disabled have the same level of mobility as the rest of us once back in their cars, so they have no need to be able to go through the priority access point."