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Watford Leisure Centre - Woodside

Horseshoe Lane, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD25 7HH

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Access Guide

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Introduction

  • Services / facilities within the building include a sports hall, swimming pool, fitness suite, squash courts, cafe and a creche.
  • Services / facilities within the grounds include an athletics track.

Opening Times

  • Monday 06:00 - 22:30.
  • Tuesday 06:00 - 22:30.
  • Wednesday 06:00 - 22:30.
  • Thursday 06:30 - 22:00.
  • Friday 06:30 - 22:00.
  • Saturday 07:00 - 19:00.
  • Sunday 08:00 - 19:30.

Location

  • There is a bus stop within 150m (164yds) of the venue.
  • The nearest National Rail station is Garston.

Parking

  • The venue does have its own car park.
  • Venue Car Park View
    • Parking is free for all users.
    • The car park is located at the front and to the side and rear of the venue.
    • The car park type is open air/surface.
    • Parking spaces for Blue Badge holders cannot booked in advance.
    • There is/are 10+ designated parking bay(s) within the car park.
    • The dimensions of the designated parking bay(s) are 520cm x 600cm (17ft 1in x 19ft 8in).
    • The nearest designated bay is 30m (32yd 2ft) from the main entrance.
    • The furthest designated bay is 60m (65yd 1ft) from the main entrance.
    • The route from the car park to the entrance is accessible to a wheelchair user with assistance.
    • Assistance may be required because there is / are dropped kerbs.
    • The car park surface is tarmac.
    • There is a dropped kerb between the car park and the venue.
    • The dropped kerb does have tactile paving.
    • The patron does not have to cross a road.
    • The car park does not have a height restriction barrier.
  • Drop-off Point View
    • There is a designated drop off point.
    • The drop off point is located outside the main entrance.
    • There is a dropped kerb from the drop off point.
    • There is tactile paving on the dropped kerb.

Outside Access (Main Entrance)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located to the front of the venue.
    • There is ramped/sloped access at this entrance.
    • There is not a bell/buzzer.
    • There is not an intercom.
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically.
    • The door(s) is/are double width.
    • The width of the door opening is 140cm.
  • Ramp/Slope View
    • The ramp/slope is located on the path leading from the car park to the entrance.
    • The gradient of the ramp/slope is steep.
    • The ramp/slope is permanent.
    • There is a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
    • There is not a/are not handrail(s) at the ramp.

Reception

  • The desk/counter is 5m (5yd 1ft) from the main entrance.
  • There is level access to the desk/counter from the entrance.
  • The desk/counter is medium height (77cm - 109cm).
  • The desk/counter has a low (76cm or lower) section.
  • The lighting levels are medium.
  • There is a hearing assistance system.
  • The type of system is a fixed loop.
  • Staff are trained to use the system.
  • Comments View
    • There is a security gate located to the right of reception. The width of the security gate is 100cm.

Level Change (Reception)

  • There is a/are step(s) to access this area/service.
  • The step(s) is/are located beyond the reception desk.
  • There is/are 10 step(s) to the area/service.
  • The lighting levels at the step(s) are medium.
  • There is not tactile paving at the top and bottom of the steps.
  • The step(s) is/are not clearly marked.
  • The step(s) is/are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
  • There is a/are handrail(s) at the step(s).
  • The handrail(s) is/are on both sides.
  • There is a lift to access this area/service.
  • The lift does bypass the step(s).

Inside Access

  • There is level access to the service(s).
  • There is a hearing assistance system.
  • The system is a fixed loop.
  • Staff are trained to use the system.
  • This venue does play background music.
  • Music is played in the fitness suite.
  • Motorised scooters are welcomed in public parts of the venue.
  • The lighting levels are medium.

Other Floors

  • Steps View
    • The floors which are accessible by stairs are 0-1-2.
    • There are 15+ steps between floors.
    • The steps are clearly marked.
    • The steps are medium (11cm - 17cm).
    • The steps do have handrails.
    • The steps have a handrail on both sides.
    • There is a landing.
    • The lighting levels are medium.

Lift

  • There is a lift for public use.
  • The lift is located in the reception foyer.
  • The lift is a standard lift.
  • The floors which are accessible by this lift are 0-1-2.
  • The lift is 15m (16yd 1ft) from the main entrance.
  • Staff do not need to be notified for use of the lift.
  • The clear door width is 80cm (2ft 7in).
  • The dimensions of the lift are 110cm x 140cm (3ft 7in x 4ft 7in).
  • There are separate entry and exit doors in the lift.
  • There is not a mirror to aid reversing out of the lift.
  • The lift does not have a visual floor indicator.
  • The lift does have an audible announcer.
  • The controls for the lift are within 90cm - 120cm from the floor.
  • The lift does not have Braille markings.
  • The lift does have tactile markings.
  • The lighting level in the lift is medium.

Level Change (Access to the Studio)

  • There is a/are step(s) to access this area/service.
  • The step(s) is/are located in front of the entrance to the studio on the first floor.
  • There is/are 6 step(s) to the area/service.
  • The lighting levels at the step(s) are bright.
  • There is not tactile paving at the top and bottom of the steps.
  • The step(s) is/are not clearly marked.
  • The step(s) is/are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
  • There is a/are handrail(s) at the step(s).
  • The handrail(s) is/are on both sides.
  • There is a lift to access this area/service.
  • The lift does bypass the step(s).

Lift (Access to Studio)

  • There is a lift for public use.
  • The lift is located on the first floor, before the entrance to the studio.
  • The lift is a platform lift.
  • The platform lift accesses a small level change.
  • The lift is approximately 15m (16yd 1ft) from the main lift.
  • Staff do not need to be notified for use of the lift.
  • The clear door width is 90cm (2ft 11in).
  • The dimensions of the lift are 110cm x 130cm (3ft 7in x 4ft 3in).
  • There are separate entry and exit doors in the lift.
  • There is not a mirror to aid reversing out of the lift.
  • The lift does not have a visual floor indicator.
  • The lift does not have an audible announcer.
  • The controls for the lift are within 90cm - 120cm from the floor.
  • The lift does not have Braille markings.
  • The lift does have tactile markings.
  • The lighting level in the lift is medium.

Eating and Drinking (Cafe)

  • The following information is for the cafe.
  • The cafe is located on the first floor.
  • Full table service is not available.
  • Food or drinks are ordered from the service counter.
  • Food or drinks can be brought to the table.
  • There is not a lowered section at the counter.
  • No tables are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs have armrests.
  • The nearest table is 25m (27yd 1ft) from the lift.
  • The distance between the floor and the lowest table is 40cm (1ft 4in).
  • The distance between the floor and the highest table is 70cm (2ft 4in).
  • There is ample room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre.
  • Plastic / takeaway cups are available.
  • Plastic / takeaway cutlery is available.
  • Drinking straws are available.
  • Menus are hand held and wall.
  • Menus are not available in Braille.
  • Menus are not available in large print.
  • Picture menus are not available.
  • Menus are clearly written.
  • Menus are presented in contrasting colours.
  • The type of food served here is hot and cold meals and snacks.

Swimming Pool (Small Pool)

  • There is level access from the changing area to the swimming pool.
  • There is not a ramped entrance into the water.
  • There is a wet side chair available.
  • There is a hoist for wheelchair users to access the water.
  • The hoist is hydraulic.
  • There are steps into the swimming pool.
  • There are 5 steps.
  • The steps do have handrails.
  • The handrails are on both sides.
  • There is not a ladder type entrance into the water.

Swimming Pool (Large Pool)

  • There is level access from the changing area to the swimming pool.
  • There is not a ramped entrance into the water.
  • There is a wet side chair available.
  • There is a hoist for wheelchair users to access the water.
  • The hoist is hydraulic.
  • There are steps into the swimming pool.
  • There are 5 steps.
  • The steps do have handrails.
  • The handrails are on both sides.
  • There is a ladder type entrance into the water.
  • There is a handrail on both sides of the ladder.
  • Comments View
    • There is a gallery for viewing, with level access at the top. and a designated viewing area.

Toning Suite

  • The Toning Suite is located on the second floor, to the left as you exit the lift.
  • The entrance to the suite is via the heavy double doors, you will need to scan your membership card to gain access.
  • The doors open towards you (pull) and have an opening width of 140cm.
  • The reception desk is located to your left beyond the entrance.
  • All machines and toning tables are accessible for all disabilities.

Fitness Suite

  • Access to Fitness Suite View
    • The fitness suite is located on the second floor.
    • The fitness suite is 10m (10yd 2ft) from the lift.
    • There is step free access to the fitness suite.
    • Level access is by lift.
    • There are doors into the fitness suite.
    • The doors open towards you (pull).
    • The doors are double.
    • The doors are heavy.
    • The opening is 130cm wide.
  • Fitness Suite (General) View
    • Staff receive no training in assisting disabled people.
    • Equipment suitable for mobility or sensory impaired users includes arm cycle, free weights and cable resistance machines.
    • A portable hearing loop is not available for induction.
    • There is clear manoeuvring space between equipment.
    • There is level access to all of the equipment.

Changing Places (Wet Side)

  • Location and access View
    • The facility is located in the changing village on the first floor.
    • The facility is 20m (21yd 2ft) from the lift.
    • There is level access to the facility.
  • Dimensions and features View
    • You do need a key for the facility.
    • It is a radar key.
    • The key can be obtained from reception.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The width of the door is 90cm (2ft 11in).
    • The dimensions of the facility are 230cm x 380cm (7ft 7in x 12ft 6in).
    • The facility changing bench height is adjustable.
    • The facility changing bench is free standing.
    • The length of the bench is 180cm (5ft 11in).
    • The facility hoist is mobile.
    • The facility toilet has a transfer space on one side only.
    • The transfer space on the right as you face the toilet is 170cm (5ft 7in).
    • Wall mounted rails are available.
    • As you face the toilet the wall mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • Drop down rails are provided.
    • As you face the toilet the drop down rails are on the right.
    • The type of wash basin is fixed.
    • Wall mounted hand rails are available at the wash basin.
    • As you face the wash basin, rails are available on both sides.
    • Disposal facilities are available.
    • A privacy screen is available.
    • Wide tear off paper roll is not available.
    • The facility has a non slip floor.
    • A functioning emergency alarm is available.
    • It is not a push button style alarm.

Accessible Shower (Wet Side)

  • Accessible shower facilities are available.
  • The showers are located in the wet side changing place.
  • The facilities available in the accessible shower are an adjustable shower head, handrails, a shower chair and a flip down seat.
  • The height of the seat is 45cm (1ft 6in).
  • Other facilities available are drop down rails.
  • There is level access to the services from the shower facilities.

Accessible Shower (Dry Side)

  • Accessible shower facilities are available.
  • The showers are located in the dry side accessible toilet.
  • The facilities available in the accessible shower are an adjustable shower head, handrails, a shower chair and a flip down seat.
  • The height of the seat is 40cm (1ft 4in).
  • Other facilities available are dropdown rails.
  • There is level access to the services from the shower facilities.

Accessible Toilet (Dry Side 1)

  • There is an/are accessible toilet(s) within this venue designated for public use.
  • Location and Access View
    • The toilet is not for the sole use of disabled people.
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 55m (60yd 5in) from the main entrance.
    • The accessible toilet is located to the left as you enter.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is a unisex toilet.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is locked by a locking handle.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 90cm (2ft 11in).
    • The door weight is light.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 230cm x 340cm (7ft 7in x 11ft 2in).
    • There is sufficient turning space in the cubicle for a wheelchair user.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the right.
    • The lateral transfer space is 180cm (5ft 11in).
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • There is a flush on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is lever.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • There is an emergency alarm.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is fully functional.
    • Disposal facilities are available in the cubicle.
    • There is not a coat hook.
  • Position of Fixtures View
    • Wall mounted rails are available.
    • As you face the toilet the wall mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • There is not a shelf within the accessible toilet.
    • There are mirrors.
    • Mirrors are placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 46cm (1ft 6in).
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The hand dryer is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
  • Colour Contrast and Lighting View
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • There is a high colour contrast between the internal door and wall.
    • The contrast between the grab rails and wall is good.
    • There is a good colour contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is fair.
    • The lighting levels are medium.

Accessible Toilet (Dry Side 2)

  • There is an/are accessible toilet(s) within this venue designated for public use.
  • Location and Access View
    • The toilet is not for the sole use of disabled people.
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 10m (10yd 2ft) from the lift.
    • The accessible toilet is located on the second floor.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
    • This is by lift.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is a unisex toilet.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is locked by a locking handle.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 90cm (2ft 11in).
    • The door weight is light.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 280cm x 220cm (9ft 2in x 7ft 3in).
    • There is sufficient turning space in the cubicle for a wheelchair user.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the left.
    • The lateral transfer space is 140cm (4ft 7in).
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • There is not a flush on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is lever.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • There is an emergency alarm.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is fully functional.
    • Disposal facilities are not available in the cubicle.
    • There is not a coat hook.
  • Position of Fixtures View
    • Wall mounted rails are available.
    • As you face the toilet the wall mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • There is not a shelf within the accessible toilet.
    • There are mirrors.
    • Mirrors are placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 47cm (1ft 7in).
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The hand dryer is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The height of the hand dryer is 105cm (3ft 5in).
    • There is not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
  • Colour Contrast and Lighting View
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • There is a high colour contrast between the internal door and wall.
    • The contrast between the grab rails and wall is good.
    • There is a good colour contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is fair.
    • The lighting levels are medium.

Standard Changing Room (Wet Side)

  • There are standard changing rooms available.
  • The standard changing room is 18m (19yd 2ft) from the lift.
  • The standard changing room is 28m (30yd 1ft) from the reception desk.
  • The standard changing room is 15m (16yd 1ft) from the swimming pools.
  • The standard changing rooms are located in the changing village next to the swimming pools.
  • There is level access to the standard changing rooms.
  • Shower facilities are available within the changing room(s).
  • There is level access to the shower facilities.

Standard Changing Room (Dry Side)

  • There are standard changing rooms available.
  • The standard changing room is 15m (16yd 1ft) from the lift.
  • The standard changing room is 40m (43yd 2ft) from the reception desk.
  • The standard changing room is 12m (13yd 4in) from the fitness suite.
  • The standard changing rooms are located on the first floor.
  • There is level access to the standard changing rooms.
  • Shower facilities are available within the changing room(s).
  • There is level access to the shower facilities.
  • Comments View
    • The details above are for the standard male changing rooms.
    • There are similar standard female changing rooms located next to these.

Standard Toilet(s) (Wet Side)

  • Availability and Location of Standard Toilets View
    • Standard toilet facilities are available.
  • Access to Standard Female and Male Toilet(s) View
    • The female and male toilet facilities that were surveyed are located in the wet side changing village.
    • The female and male toilets are 20m (21yd 2ft) from the lift.
    • Inside the venue, there is level access to the female and male toilets.
    • This is by lift.
    • Lighting levels are medium.
  • Baby Change Facilities View
    • Baby change facilities are located within the venue.
    • Baby change facilities are located in the wet side changing village.
    • The height of the baby change table once extended is 80cm (2ft 7in).
    • Inside the venue, there is level access to the baby change facility.
    • This is by lift.

Standard Toilet(s) (Dry Side)

Additional Info

  • Staff do receive disability awareness / equality training.
  • Documents are not available in Braille.
  • Documents can be requested in large print.
  • A bowl of water can be provided for an assistance dog.
  • A member of staff trained in BSL skills is normally on duty.
  • Staff are trained to BSL level 2.