Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre

suet

08 Dec 2016

Generally good for access on site, just a bit remote from main transport links

4

4

Date of visit: December 2016

I have experience of challenges around: moving around

Overall Rating

Good

We visited to see the Wheelchair Tennis Masters 2016 which was sublime. Inside the building is good for access, though I didn't see a large number of accessible loos (however what there was was good). There was a free shuttle bus transfer from Stratford on this particular occasion which was fully accessible. Food venue (on site but separate) was level access though with heavy doors. Paths outside all level, automatic doors to venue. Tennis Courts had flip up seats and wheelchairs could park up there on front row, anywhere you liked.

Disabled Access In and Around

Good

All level access into and within the tennis area. Automatic doors at the front entrance. The food court was in a nearby building and had gentle ramped entrance though heavy doors to get inside. Seating for wheelchair users wasn't specifically designated - I could park up anywhere along the front row as the seats flipped up out of the way. As it wasn't busy, this was great - I don't know how it would work if it was busy. All worked fine on the day we were there though.

Parking & Transport

Average

There are limited disabled spaces on site which can't be reserved. Nearest underground is Stratford. It's a bit of a hike from there to the venue but this particular event laid on free accessible shuttle bus transfer. Apart from diabolically bad directions to the pick up point and the fact there was no dropped pavement there, the shuttle was great and the driver so very friendly and helpful.

Accessible Toilets

Good

I visited the accessible loo near reception. The signs were there but really really tiny. The loo was good - reasonable size, grab rails etc. The door was manual but very light touch to open. Only downside was that there's only a single male and a single female able-bodied loo nearby - so of course everyone used the accessible loo rather than wait. I did notice another block of loos nearby the courts. The loo I visited was not radar key operated.

Staff

Good

Volunteers at the event were helpful. Top marks to the shuttle bus driver who was helpful and thorough.

Additional Information

Better directional signs for the accessible loos are needed as the existing signs are really small. They might also wish to consider making the loos radar key operated to prevent abuse when there's high demand.