Overview

I visited Five Ways Railway Station specifically to check out the accessibility of the station. I was able to cover off the entrance, ticket desk and the accessible toilet, but I was advised that I would have to speak to the media team to acquire express permission to take further photos. Despite this, there is plenty of useful access information to share.

Transport & Parking

There is no immediate parking at the station. The closest parking I could find was half a mile away at the Five Ways Entertainment Centre. There is no drop-off point or taxi rank at this location. There is, however, a bus stop just outside where the 80 and 8C (Inner Circle) services operate. If coming by bike down the canal path, there are stairs leading up to the station, the edges of which are marked – if not a little faded. There's also a single rail on each side to bring your bike up if you're able to.

Access

The entrance to the station is quite compact and is located on an incline. Once you get in, however, there's level access. A ticket machine can be found at the entrance, with a second one inside the station next to the accessible ticket gates, which are wide enough for most mobility devices. On your left, you'll find the ticket office, which I understand is only staffed part-time. There's a hearing loop at the desks as well as on the platforms. Further research confirms that there are metal benches on the platforms, which have tactile paving at the edges, though the benches look a little close to the end and, depending on where the accessible carriage is, might make boarding difficult. Sadly, I can't comment on the lifts.

Toilets

The toilet is on the right as you enter. It requires a RADAR key to access, and the door opens outwards. Inside, there are grab rails on either side of the toilet bowl and a contrasting toilet seat. There is space for a right-hand side transfer. The toilet has a soft backrest. The red emergency cord was wrapped around a rail and tucked behind a bin, which needs sorting. The sink also has contrasting rails on both sides, and the tap is sensor-operated. The placement of the hand dryer could make it a bit awkward to reach the sink. The toilet could accommodate a powerchair user and a second person, but it is very neat.

Staff

The member of staff I spoke with, who advised that I must speak to the media team, was polite about it. Though it would have been helpful if they'd provided some contact information, if they wanted to help.

Photos