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Sandcastle Waterpark

South Beach, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY4 1BB

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Access Guide

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Introduction

  • Services / facilities within the building include a first aid room, Bongo Bongo Cafe, and Waterfalls Cafe.
  • Comments View
    • Opening times vary throughout the year.
    • Private hire is available for groups, contact the venue for more information.
    • The pool areas can be accessed via a moderate ramp on the lower ground floor or an easy ramp on the ground floor.
    • Staff are always available to help with assistance.
    • Opening times vary throughout the year.

Opening Times & Admission Prices

Location

  • The venue is situated within the centre of the town.
  • This venue is situated in Blackpool.
  • There is a bus stop within 150m (164yds) of the venue.
  • The venue is not situated on a road which has a steep gradient.
  • The nearest mainline station is Blackpool South.
  • There is a tram stop within 150m (164yds) of the venue.

Parking (South Beach Car Park - Council)

  • The venue does have its own car park.
  • Venue Car Park View
    • Parking is not free for all users.
    • Parking is not free for Blue Badge holders.
    • The car park type is open air/surface.
    • There is/are 6 Blue Badge parking bay(s) within the car park.
    • The dimensions of the Blue Badge parking bay(s) are 360cm x 600cm (11ft 10in x 19ft 8in).
    • The nearest Blue Badge bay is 45m (49yd 8in) from the main entrance.
    • The furthest Blue Badge 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 not have tactile paving.
    • There is not a road to cross between the car park and the entrance.
    • The car park does have a height restriction barrier.
    • The maximum height is 191cm (6ft 3in).
  • Drop-off Point View
    • There is not a designated drop off point.
  • Comments View
    • There is a steep ramp between the car park and the entrances.

Outside Access (Main Entrance)

  • This information is for the entrance located at the front of the building.
  • There is not level access into the venue.
  • The main doors open automatically.
  • The doors are single width.
  • The door opening is 120cm (3ft 11in) wide.

Level Change (Main Entrance)

  • There is a ramp/slope to access this area/service.
  • The ramp/slope is located leading to and in front of the entrance.
  • The ramp/slope gradient is slight.

Outside Access (Front Entrance)

  • This information is for the entrance located at the front of the building.
  • There is not level access into the venue.
  • The main doors open automatically.
  • The doors are single width.
  • The door opening is 118cm (3ft 10in) wide.

Level Change (Front Entrance)

  • There is a ramp/slope to access this area/service.
  • The ramp/slope is located in front of the entrance.
  • The ramp/slope gradient is slight.

Outside Access (Waterfall Cafe Bar Entrance)

  • This information is for the entrance located at the front of the building.
  • There is not level access into the venue.
  • The main door(s) open automatically.
  • The doors are single width.
  • The door opening is 125cm (4ft 1in) wide.

Level Change (Waterfall Cafe Bar Entrance)

  • There is a ramp/slope to access this area/service.
  • The ramp/slope is located in front of the entrance.
  • The ramp/slope gradient is slight.

Reception (Main Reception)

  • The reception desk is 35m (38yd) from the main entrance.
  • There is ramped access to reception from the entrance.
  • The reception desk is low.
  • Lighting levels are medium.
  • Portable hearing loops are available on all reception desks and counters.

Reception (Internet Booking Desk)

  • The reception desk is 40m (44yd) from the main entrance.
  • There is ramped access to reception from the entrance.
  • The reception desk is medium height.
  • Lighting levels are medium.
  • Portable hearing loops are available on all reception desks and counters.

Inside Access

  • There is not level access to the service.
  • There is a hearing assistance system.
  • The system is a portable loop.
  • Staff are trained to use the system.
  • This venue does play background music.
  • Music is played music is played in some areas of the waterpark.
  • Motorised scooters are welcomed in public parts of the venue.
  • The lighting levels are varied.
  • Comments View
    • Wheelchair manouvering space is available throughout inside.
    • Tactile, Pictoral and some Braile signage is available throughout thte waterpark.
    • Seating areas are available throughout the venue.
    • There is the Tiki Cabana VIP area located on the upper level of the pool area, There are two deep steps with hand rails on both sides into the pool area.

Level Change (Inside Access)

  • There is a ramp or slope to access this service.
  • The ramp or slope is located ahead as you enter the entrances .
  • The ramp or slope is permanent.
  • There is a level landing at the top of the ramp.

Restaurant Bar Internal (Waterfalls Cafe)

  • The following information is for the cafe.
  • Once inside, there is level access to the service.
  • Food is available from the bar.
  • Full table service is not available.
  • Food or drinks are ordered from the service counter.
  • Food or drinks cannot be brought to the table.
  • There is not a lowered section at the service counter.
  • No tables are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs are permanently fixed.
  • Some chairs have armrests.
  • The nearest table is 10m (32ft 10in) from the main entrance.
  • The distance between the floor and the lowest table is 50cm (1ft 8in).
  • The distance between the floor and the highest table is 74cm (2ft 5in).
  • Menus are hand held and wall.
  • Menus are not available in Braille.
  • Menus are 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 varied.
  • Comments View
    • Staff can provide clipboards if the counter is too high.
    • This cafe is located in the main foyer.

Level Change (Swim Shack)

  • There is a ramp or slope to access this service.
  • The ramp or slope is located within the swim shack shop leading to the pool.
  • The ramp or slope is permanent.
  • Comments View
    • There are push pad operated automatic doors leading into the swim shack and leading from the swim shack to the pool area.
    • The door leading into the swim shack is 190cm wide and the door leading to the pool area is 150cm wide.

Swimming Pool

  • There is ramped access from the changing area to the swimming pool.
  • There are ramped entrances into the pools.
  • There are 3 wet side chairs available.
  • There are steps into the swimming pool.
  • There is a ladder type entrance into the water.
  • There is a handrail on both sides of the ladder.
  • There is an easy ramp leading to the pools additional seating area.
  • There are additional easy slopes and ramps throughout the pool area.
  • There are steps leading to all slides.
  • Wet side chairs and wet changing bed are available.
  • Wheelchairs are available to borrow.
  • Swimming and water equipment is available (Floatable equipment, armbands, bobbins and life jackets).
  • Customers with assitance dogs can leave the dog with a member of staff, who will look after the dog whilst the visitor users the pool, In a cooler location
  • There is safety hotline is availble for guest to discuss indvidual requirements prior to arrival - 01253 340 721.

Sea Breaze Spa

  • The spa is located on the far side of the pool area.
  • There is a Gate to access the spa, the gate is 90cm wide and opens both ways. The is automatic and activated by a wrist band
  • There are an Aromatherapy Room, Steam Room, Salt Inhulation Room. The Doors into each room open towards you, light and 83cm wide.
  • There are also heated lounge beds, foot spa's and an ice feature.
  • The spa is for visitor over the age of 18.

Level Change (Upper Pool Area)

  • There is a ramp or slope to access this service.
  • The ramp or slope is located leading up to the upper pool area.
  • The ramp or slope is permanent.
  • There is a / are step(s) to access this area / service.
  • The step(s) is / are located leading up to the upper pool area.
  • There is / are 15+ step(s) to the area / service.
  • The lighting levels at the steps are bright.
  • The step(s) is/are not clearly marked.
  • The step(s) is / are medium.
  • The steps do have handrails.
  • The ramp/slope does bypass the step(s).

Restaurant Bar Internal (Waters Edge Cafe)

  • The following information is for the café.
  • Once inside, there is level access to the service.
  • Food is available from the bar.
  • Full table service is not available.
  • Food or drinks are ordered from the counter.
  • Food or drinks can be brought to the table.
  • No tables are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs are permanently fixed.
  • Some chairs have armrests.
  • The distance between the floor and the lowest table is 70cm (2ft 4in).
  • Menus are wall only.
  • Menus are not available in Braille.
  • Menus are not available in large print.
  • Picture menus are not available.
  • The type of food served here is varied.
  • Comments View
    • Staff can provide clipboards if the counter is too high.
    • This cafe is located within the pool area.

Other Floors (Changing Room)

  • Steps View
    • The floors which are accessible by stairs are LG-G.
    • 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 (Changing Room)

  • There is a lift for public use.
  • The lift is located to the left of the Swim Shack.
  • The lift is a standard lift.
  • The floors which are accessible by this lift are LG-G.
  • The lift is 50m (54yd 2ft) from the main entrance.
  • 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 not have an audible announcer.
  • The controls for the lift are within 120cm from the floor.
  • The lift does not have Braille markings.
  • The lift does not have tactile markings.
  • The lighting level in the lift is medium.

Toilet with Adaptations (Main Reception)

  • There are accessible toilets 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.
    • The accessible toilet is 35m (38yd 10in) from the main entrance.
    • The accessible toilet is located opposite the main reception desk.
    • There is level access to the 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 80cm (2ft 7in).
    • The door weight is light.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 129cm x 200cm (4ft 3in x 6ft 7in).
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the right.
    • The lateral transfer space is 60cm (1ft 12in).
    • 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 in the cubicle.
    • The emergency 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 not mirrors.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 46cm (1ft 6in).
    • There is not a hand dryer.
    • There is a towel dispenser.
    • The towel dispenser cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The towel dispenser is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The towel dispenser is 114cm (3ft 9in) high.
    • 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 sink.
    • The sink can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The sink 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 good.
    • The lighting levels are medium.
  • Comments View
    • Manouvering space - 129x 105
    • Similar accessible toilets are available within the family changing room toilets and pool side.
  • Comments View
    • Manouvering space - 129x 105
    • Similar accessible toilets are available within the family changing room toilets and pool side.

Toilet with Adaptations (Pool Area - First Aid Room)

  • There are accessible toilets 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.
    • The accessible toilet is located within the pool area.
    • There is level access to the 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 85cm (2ft 9in).
    • The door weight is light.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 238cm x 280cm (7ft 10in x 9ft 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 left.
    • The lateral transfer space is 170cm (5ft 7in).
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is lever.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • There is an emergency alarm in the cubicle.
    • The emergency 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 not mirrors.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 43cm (1ft 5in).
    • There is not a hand dryer.
    • There is a towel dispenser.
    • The towel dispenser cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The towel dispenser is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The towel dispenser is 114cm (3ft 9in) high.
    • 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 sink.
    • The sink cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The sink 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.
  • Baby Change Facilities View
    • Inside the venue, there is level access to the baby change facility.
  • Colour Contrast and Lighting View
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • The lighting levels are medium.
  • Baby Change Facilities View
    • Baby change facilities are located within the venue.
    • Baby change facilities are located within the accessible toilet.
    • The height of the baby change table once extended is 95cm (3ft 1in).

Accessible Shower (Pool Area - First Aid Room)

  • Accessible shower facilities are available.
  • The showers are located within the pool area first aid room accessible toilet.
  • The facilities available in the accessible shower are an adjustable shower head, handrails, and a flip down seat.
  • The height of the seat is 45cm (1ft 6in).
  • Other facilities available are accessible toilet and changing bench.
  • There is level access to the services from the shower facilities.

Toilet with Adaptations (Swim Shack - Pool Side)

  • There are accessible toilets 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.
    • The accessible toilet is located next to the swimwear shop on pool side.
    • There is level access to the accessible toilet.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is a unisex toilet.
    • A key is required for the accessible toilet.
    • The key is a radar key.
    • The key can be obtained from a member of staff.
    • The door opens inwards.
    • The door is locked by a locking handle.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 85cm (2ft 9in).
    • The door weight is heavy.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 220cm x 270cm (7ft 3in x 8ft 10in).
    • 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 97cm (3ft 2in).
    • 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 in the cubicle.
    • The emergency alarm is fully functional.
    • Disposal facilities are not available in the cubicle.
    • There is 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 not a hand dryer.
    • There is a towel dispenser.
    • The towel dispenser cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The towel dispenser is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • 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 sink.
    • The sink can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The sink is placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
    • The height of the sink is 79cm (2ft 7in).

Toilet with Adaptations (South Side)

  • There are accessible toilets within this venue designated for public use.
  • Location and Access View
    • The toilet is not for the sole use of disabled people.
    • The accessible toilet is located South side.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is a unisex toilet.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • The door opens inwards.
    • The door is locked by a locking handle.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 85cm (2ft 9in).
    • The door weight is light.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 368cm x 157cm (12ft 1in x 5ft 2in).
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the left.
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is lever.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • There is an emergency alarm in the cubicle.
    • The emergency 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.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 52cm (1ft 8in).
    • There is not a hand dryer.
    • There is a towel dispenser.
    • The towel dispenser cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The towel dispenser is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The towel dispenser is 138cm (4ft 6in) high.
    • 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 sink.
    • The sink cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The sink is placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
    • The height of the sink is 86cm (2ft 10in).
  • 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.
  • Baby Change Facilities View
    • Inside the venue, there is level access to the baby change facility.
  • Colour Contrast and Lighting View
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • The lighting levels are medium.
  • Baby Change Facilities View
    • Baby change facilities are located within the venue.
    • Baby change facilities are located within the accessible toilet.
  • Comments View
    • At the time of the survey this accessible toilet is undergoing refurb.

Accessible Shower (Swim Shack - Pool Side)

  • Accessible shower facilities are available.
  • The showers are located in the accesible toilet.
  • The facilities available in the accessible shower are an adjustable shower head, handrails and a flip down seat.
  • The height of the seat is 47cm (1ft 7in).
  • Other facilities available are drop down rail and alarm.
  • There is level access to the services from the shower facilities.

Changing Places (Gold Wet Room)

  • Location and access View
    • The facility is located at the side of the pool, next to the sidewinder steps.
    • 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 a member of staff.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The width of the door is 120cm (3ft 11in).
    • The dimensions of the facility are 300cm x 630cm (9ft 10in x 20ft 8in).
    • 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 powered overhead.
    • The overhead hoist covers all areas in cubicle.
    • The sling is attached to the hoist by hook and loop.
    • The facility toilet has a transfer space on both sides.
    • The transfer space on the left as you face the toilet is 90cm (2ft 11in).
    • The transfer space on the right as you face the toilet is 350cm (11ft 6in).
    • 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 both sides.
    • The type of sink is adjustable.
    • Wall mounted hand rails are not available at the sink.
    • Disposal facilities are available.
    • A privacy screen is available.
    • Wide tear off paper roll is available.
    • The facility has a non slip floor.
    • A functioning emergency alarm is available.
  • Comments View
    • There is an adjustable shower in the changing places.

Accessible Changing Room

  • The accessible changing room is located in the family changing area.
  • The door opens inwards.
  • The width of the door is 76cm (2ft 6in).
  • The dimensions of the accessible changing room are 195cm x 215cm (6ft 5in x 7ft 1in).
  • Comments View
    • There are accessible changing rooms available.
    • Some accessible changing rooms are located within the family changing rooms.
    • The accessible changing room is 5m (16ft 5in) from the changing room entrance.
    • The facilities available in the accessible changing room are handrails and a changing table.
    • There is level access to the changing room.

Standard Changing Room

  • There are standard changing rooms available.
  • The standard changing room is 7m (7yd 1ft) from the lift.
  • The standard changing room is 30m (32yd 2ft) from the pool.
  • The standard changing rooms are located on the lower ground 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
    • There are male, female and family changing rooms available.

Standard Toilet(s) (Main Reception)

  • Availability and Location of Standard Toilets View
    • Standard toilets are available.
  • Access to Standard Female and Male Toilet(s) View
    • The female and male toilets are located opposite the main reception.
    • The female and male toilets are 42m (45yd 2ft) from the main entrance.
    • Inside the venue, there is not level access to the female and male toilets.
    • Lighting levels are medium.
  • Baby Change Facilities View
    • Baby change facilities are located within the venue.
    • Baby change facilities are located opposite the main reception.
    • The height of the baby change table once extended is 85cm (2ft 9in).
    • Inside the venue, there is level access to the baby change facility.

Level Change (Standard Toilets - Main Reception)

  • There is a ramp or slope to access this service.
  • The ramp or slope is located opposite the main reception desk, leading to the standard toilets.
  • The ramp or slope is permanent.
  • The ramp does have handrails.
  • The handrails are on both sides.
  • There is a / are step(s) to access this area / service.

Standard Toilet(s) (Changing Rooms)

Additional Info

  • Documents are not available in Braille.
  • Documents are available in large print.
  • A bowl of water can be provided for an assistance dog.
  • A member of staff trained in BSL skills is not normally on duty.