Deansgate - Castlefield Metrolink

Manchester

1 review

Review this place

dystrophydad

08 Oct 2024

Deansgate Metro

Date of visit: October 2024

I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: a hidden impairment, accessing toilets and moving around.

I use or have experience of: changing places toilet, disabled toilet, hidden impairment, powerchair, toilet with hoist, toilets, walking aid, wheelchair

Image of the pathway to the tram station, building works are taking place in the distance

Image of the walkway between Deansgate station and the metro link

Image of ramp access to the tram platform

Image of seating in the tram platform shelter

Image of the tram, flush against the platform

Image of the shelter on the tram platform

Image of step access and contactless terminal

Image of the lift access, a metal booth with sliding doors. To the right is the call button

Close up image of the emergency intercom, showing an incorporated induction loop

Image of the lift button. A silver 1 on a black button with braille making below

Image of the buttons on the inside of the lift, all have braille markings

Image of the street-level access to the lift

Overall Rating

Good

Deansgate is home to a variety of trendy bars and restaurants and what better way to get there than by hopping on the tram? With a lift to street level and a bridge to Deansgate station, it's a mini transport hub.

Disabled Access In and Around

Good

As with most of the metro stops in Manchester, the disabled access is of a high standard. There's ramp and stair access on either side of the platform, with yellow grab rails should you need them. There are tactile markings at the platform edge, and a large wheelchair user symbol to identify where to board if you are disabled. Platform signage is minimal but appropriate to the location, though there are no alternative formats in use that I noticed. However, there are active induction loops on board the tram. I was able to purchase my ticket from the machine at sitting height, though you can also tap your bank card or mobile phone at the terminals on the platform. Just make sure to tap again at your destination to avoid being charged for an incomplete journey. I saw this as I made this mistake, though I gave the Bee Network/Travel for Greater Manchester a call two days later and they refunded this for me. Rows of metal seats can be found on the platform, in addition to leaning seats inside the shelters. A lift can be found nearby, which takes you down to street level. The lift has an induction loop and braille buttons. There's also a bridge that links to Deansgate Railway Station for onward travel or as a secondary egress route in the event the lift is not functioning.

Parking & Transport

Excellent

I didn't see any on-street parking, but I wasn't looking for it. However, I can't think of a better way to get to the Metrolink than by tram. Deansgate Railway Station is across the nearby walkway, providing another travel route to and from this location.