Lovely staff but mixed provisions - ambulatory wheelchair user
3.5
3.5
Date of visit: December 2022
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Good
I was allowed to enter the venue early to get situated, which I greatly appreciated. I entered the hall from the front entrance using a portable ramp, and I was allowed to be the first to leave (security holding back crowd to ensure the portable ramp was down securely so I could leave). I felt safe entering and exiting the venue. No set space for wheelchairs/disabled seating - I was put on a raised platform where the bar was, with a choice of where I wanted to stay. I had OK line of sight, but this depends on how large the crowd is as this could completely block a seated view. At one point someone on the main floor blocked my sight for quite some time. Disabled toilet was out of service so as an ambulatory wheelchair user I took my walking stick to the general toilets that were in close proximation (one located behind me beside the bar and another that would mean I may have to interact with the crowd to get to). A member of staff made sure I got into the bathroom and cleared the way so that I could access easily. I appreciate for non-ambulatory users the fact that the disabled toilet was out of use would be very difficult, so this was a disappointment and I was not made aware before I visited. We parked a 2-5 min walk away on a residential road, but the venue is very near public transport access.
Disabled Access In and Around
Average
step free at front and portable ramp into bar area (with steps down to main hall). Portable ramp required again if you want to visit the disabled toilets as it is based outside between the main hall and the venue entrance
Parking & Transport
Average
Accessible Toilets
Poor
out of use at time of visit
Staff
Excellent
Very reassuring and friendly, allowed early access. Did their best despite limitations of the venue.
