A Manic Friday
5
5
Date of visit: April 2018
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
A fully wheelchair accessible concert venue.
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
There are steps at the entrance to the Arena, there were two people standing at the bottom of them wearing "Happy To Help" t shirts so I asked how to get in. One of the helpers took us round to the accessible entrance and we were met by another helper who called the lift and explained where to go when it arrived.
Parking & Transport
0There is blue badge (expensive) parking outside the venue. I did not park there but parked at Paradise Circus council car park where unlimited free parking is available if your blue badge is displayed. It's only a short distance from the Arena and it's open for parking from 07.30 until 1am.
Accessible Toilets
Excellent
There are accessible toilets by every entrance to the seating blocks. There was a helper standing nearby if you didn't have a radar key, I did, but when I returned later to use the toilet I wasn't sure whether it was occupied as the red flap seemed to show that it was. The helper came over without me having to ask, knocked on the door and when there was no response opened it. That has happened to me before in other toilets that have a radar lock. The toilet had plenty of space for a wheelchair.
Staff
Excellent
Excellent, there were plenty of them around and easily visible in their t shirts. They were happy and chatty and willing to give advice about where things are and how to get there.
Additional Information
This venue is Arena Birmingham, formerly NIA, not to be mistaken for Birmingham Arena formerly NEC. I really enjoyed the night because of the level of help available from happy and chatty helpers. By the way the concert by The Manic Street Preachers was absolutely great.
