Multi-storey Parking - On another level?
3.5
3.5
Date of visit: August 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
Overall Rating
Good
This review is specific to the multi-storey car park at the airport, rather than the airport itself. Advertised as the closest you can park to the terminal, they definitely aren't lying. The ground floor is used for drop-off, but there are five floors in this structure and a "mostly" accessible toilet.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
Access is decent, with plenty of space at the drop-off area and at the rear of your car when parked. There are three lifts at this location, though one was out of service during my visit. Each of the large lifts has grab rails, but there are no Braille buttons or induction loops available. I didn't see an induction loop at the enquiry office, nor did I observe any accessibility features on the ticket machines. Additionally, some buttons on the ticket machine are difficult to reach from a seated position.
Parking & Transport
Excellent
Featuring 2,051 spaces, it's fair to say the car park is vast. Although I couldn't find an exact number, there are accessible parking spaces within the car park, with assistance buttons nearby. The airport provides free assistance services for those who require them, but there is no Blue Badge exemption for parking. However, Blue Badge holders are permitted one hour of free access to the car park, which is helpful for drop-offs and collections. There are many Blue Badge drop-off points on the ground floor of the car park, with ramped curbs and tactile paving nearby.
Accessible Toilets
Good
Toilets? In a car park? This was an unexpected but welcome find. While there's no shortage of toilets in the airport, most people get a little stressed when they reach check-in. With people everywhere, instructions being given, and a lot of noise, having to queue up just to get through check-in to use the toilet can be overwhelming. So, the option of using the toilet in the car park is a relief. Located just off the lift area and down a corridor, you'll find the accessible toilet. No key is needed, and it's secured from the inside by turning the lock. The toilet is positioned against the rear wall, but neither the wall nor the toilet seat contrasts with the rest of the room. There's no backrest, just bare tiles, which isn't ideal. There are grab rails on both sides, but only a left-side transfer is possible. The red cord is on your right when seated, but it was tied up—I fixed it, of course. While there is space to transfer, a large wooden baby-changing unit in the room may make it awkward for some. There's a small sink with a sensor tap, a grab rail on the left side, a soap dispenser, and a hand dryer. The room also features a large mirror. However, there is plenty of room to move within the toilet, and it could easily accommodate two other people if needed.
Staff
0I didn't speak to anyone one my visit.
Additional Information
There are two crossings between the car park and the airport terminal, both equipped with tactile paving, one with traffic lights and the other with a zebra crossing. They're also quite wide, which is helpful when there are a lot of people rushing to board their flight.
