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Winchester Science Centre

Telegraph Way, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1HZ

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Access Guide

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Getting Here

  • By Road View
    • Winchester Science Centre is in the South Downs National Park, approximately three miles from Winchester City Centre.
      The Science Centre is just off a main road (Alresford Road) close to the M3.
    • There are 12 Blue Badge parking bays available.
  • By Bus View
    • There is not a bus stop within 150 metres of the venue.
    • The No. 64 bus runs between Winchester and Alresford and will take you to within 300 metres of Winchester Science Centre, just at the bottom of Morn Hill.
  • By Train View

Getting Help and Assistance

  • For more information accessibility at the Winchester Science Centre please click here (new tab).
  • There is a member of staff available for help and assistance.
  • There is an assistance dog toilet or toileting area at the venue/nearby.
  • The assistance dog toilet or toileting area is located outside the venue.
  • Water bowls for assistance dogs are available.
  • There are mobility aids available.
  • The mobility aids available include wheelchairs.
  • To obtain mobility aids please contact [email protected]. They're available on a first-come-first-served basis so it's best to book as early as you can.
  • There is a designated place of safety which can be used by people who may feel scared or at risk.
  • The designated place of safety is the Recombobulation Room, which is located on the lower level next to one of the flights of stairs.
  • Carers, personal assistants and essential companions are allowed in free of charge, please book tickets online in advance.
  • For visitors who require a quieter environment, the best time is between 3pm and 5pm. That's when the building has fewer people in and the shows are less busy.
  • Sensory Backpacks are available to borrow which include fiddle toys, ear defenders and a social story, they are available to request prior to your visit.
    Ear defenders are available in the Welcome Area, Bio:Space, Science Theatre and Science Live.
  • In the Planetarium, Science Live and Science Theatre there are British Sign Language days with a British Sign Language Interpreter, please contact the venue for more information.

Parking (Main Car Park)

  • Parking View
    • The venue does have its own parking facilities.
    • The car park is located off Telegraph Way.
    • The car park type is open air/surface.
    • The car park does not have a height restriction barrier.
    • The car park does not have a barrier control system.
    • The car park surface is tarmac.
    • Clearly marked/signposted parent and child parking bays are not available.
    • All parking spaces are provided on a first come first served basis.
  • Blue Badge Parking View
    • There is a/are Blue Badge parking bay(s) available.
    • The Blue Badge bay(s) is/are clearly marked and signposted.
    • There is/are 2 designated Blue Badge parking bay(s) within the car park.
    • The dimensions of the designated Blue Badge parking bay(s) surveyed are 240cm x 460cm (7ft 10in x 15ft 1in).
    • The Blue Badge parking bays do not have a marked zone around them.
    • Parking spaces for Blue Badge holders do not need to be booked in advance.
  • Paying View
    • There are parking charges for the car park.
    • Parking charges apply for all users except Blue Badge holders.
    • Payment signs are provided.
    • Payment signs are clearly presented.
    • Payment term signs do not make it clear if parking charges apply to Blue Badge holders.
    • Payment for parking charges is made via an app/online.
    • To see the parking charges please click here (opens new tab).
    • Motorcycles and annual members can park free of charge.
      Please remember to display your annual membership parking permit in your windscreen.

Parking (Blue Badge Bays)

  • Parking View
    • The venue does have its own parking facilities.
    • The car parking facilities are for Blue Badge holders only.
    • The car park is located off Telegraph Way.
    • The car park type is open air/surface.
    • The car park does not have a height restriction barrier.
    • The car park surface is tarmac.
    • All parking spaces are provided on a first come first served basis.
  • Blue Badge Parking View
    • There is a/are Blue Badge parking bay(s) available.
    • The Blue Badge bay(s) is/are clearly marked.
    • There is/are 9 designated Blue Badge parking bay(s) within the car park.
    • The dimensions of the designated Blue Badge parking bay(s) surveyed are 250cm x 580cm (8ft 2in x 19ft).
    • The Blue Badge parking bays have a marked zone to both sides but not at the rear.
    • The marked zones around the Blue Badge parking bay(s) have at least the recommended width of 120cm.
    • Parking spaces for Blue Badge holders do not need to be booked in advance.
  • Paying View
    • The car park is free for Blue Badge holders only.
  • Comments View
    • If you require assistance getting from the Blue Badge bays to the entrance due to the slope please call 01962 863 791.

Approach (Blue Badge Bay Parking to Entrance)

  • Approach View
    • The surface of the approach is tarmac.
    • The slope leads from the Blue Badge bays to the path leading to the main entrance.
    • There is step-free access on the approach.
  • Ramp/Slope View
    • There is a ramp/slope on the approach.
    • The ramp/slope is permanent, has a slight gradient and has no handrails.
    • The ramp/slope does bypass the step(s).
  • Step(s) View
    • There is a/are step(s) on the approach.
    • There is/are 10+ unmarked step(s), with handrails on both sides.
    • Handrails are at the recommended height (90cm-100cm).
    • Handrails do cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
    • Handrails are easy to grip.
    • Handrails do not extend horizontally beyond the first and last steps.
    • The height of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 15cm and 18cm.
    • The depth of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 30cm and 45cm.

Outside Access (Entrance)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located at the front of the building.
    • The entrance area/door is clearly signed.
    • This entrance is signed with 'Welcome'.
    • There is step-free access at this entrance.
    • There is a canopy or recess which provides weather protection at this entrance.
    • The entrance door(s) does not/do not contrast visually with its immediate surroundings.
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically (towards you).
    • The door(s) is/are double width.
    • The width of the opening is 160cm.

Exit

  • Exit View
    • This information is for the exit located after the shop.
    • The exit area/door is clearly signed internally.
    • This exit is signed with 'Exit'.
    • The exit is step-free.
    • There is a dark mat or floor marking at this exit area which may look like a hole to some people.
    • The exit door(s) does not/do not contrast visually with its immediate surroundings.
    • The door(s) open(s) automatically (away from you).
    • The automatic door(s) is/are push pad or push button activated.
    • The push pad or push button is 100cm from floor level.
    • The door(s) is/are single width.
    • The width of the opening is 110cm.

Reception (Admissions)

  • Reception View
    • The reception point is located ahead as you enter.
    • The reception point is approximately 4m (4yd 1ft) from the entrance.
    • The reception area/desk is clearly visible from the entrance.
    • There is step-free access to the reception point.
    • There is a clear unobstructed route to the reception point.
    • There are no windows, TVs, glazed screens or mirrors behind the reception point which could adversely affect the ability of someone to lip read.
    • The counter is not placed in front of a plain background.
    • The lighting levels at the reception point are moderate to good.
    • The height of the reception counter is 104cm.
    • There is not a lowered section of the counter.
    • The counter is staffed.
    • There is not a hearing assistance system at the reception point.
    • The type of flooring in the reception area is vinyl.
    • There is some flooring which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.

Attraction / Exhibit (Ground Floor)

  • Attraction / Exhibit View
    • There is step-free level access throughout this area.
    • Clear directional signage is provided in this area.
    • The type of flooring in this area is carpet.
    • This area does play background music/sound.
    • There are resting/seating areas within this area.
    • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in pictorial, information board and television/screen format.
    • All exhibits start from the floor level.
    • The distance between the lowest exhibit and the floor is 70cm.
    • All of the exhibitions are interactive and the heights of the controls range from 70cm to 100cm.
    • There is a good colour contrast between the walls and the floor in this area.
    • The lighting levels in this area are moderate to good.

Screen(s) (Planetarium)

  • This information is for the entrance located to the right after you enter the Science Centre.
  • There is step-free access at this entrance.
  • The entrance door(s) does/do contrast visually with its immediate surroundings.
  • The door(s) open(s) towards you (pull).
  • The door(s) is/are double width.
  • The door(s) is/are heavy.
  • The width of the door opening is 170cm.
  • There is a second set of doors.
  • The door(s) open(s) towards you (pull).
  • The door(s) is/are double width.
  • The door(s) is/are heavy.
  • The width of the door opening is 170cm.
  • The entrance door(s) is/are permanently held open before and after screenings.
  • There is a member of staff available for assistance at this entrance before and after screenings.
  • The Planetarium shows are mostly relaxed environments.
    Presentations are quiet and calm with low light.
    Visitors can talk, move around, go in and out and ask questions.
    There are 3D printed models and tactile books. The fulldome film shows have subtitles.
    There is a fixed hearing loop induction system available.
    There British Sign Language days with a BSL interpreter, please contact the venue for more information.
  • Screen Information View
    • The type of flooring is carpet.
    • There are flip-down seats with armrests on both sides.
    • The width of the rows of seating is 35cm.
    • The lighting levels before and after screenings are moderate to good.
    • The nearest accessible toilet is located within the science centre.
    • There is step free access to the rear seating area.
      The seats are at angle to allow viewing of the ceiling.
      Some aspects of the showing maybe disorienting.
      There is a talk going on during the showing.
    • There is stepped access to the majority of seating.
    • There is/are 1 to 8 step(s).
    • The step(s) is/are clearly marked.
    • The height of the step(s) is/are between 15cm and 18cm.
    • The height of the step(s) is/are 17cm.
    • There is not a/are not handrail(s) at the step(s).
    • The steps are clearly illuminated during screenings.
    • The steps are clearly illuminated before and after screenings.
  • Designated Seating Area(s) View
    • The designated seating area(s) is/are located at the rear of the planetarium.
    • The designated seating area(s) is/are clearly signed.
    • There is step-free access to the designated seating area(s).
    • There is/are 6 designated space(s) for wheelchair users in this screen.
    • Wheelchairs may be left with you.
    • The view from this seating area is good.
    • Companions sit next to you.
    • There is sufficient space for an assistance dog to rest next to you.
  • Comments View
    • There is a portable ramp available to provide access to the stage for speakers/presenters.

Ground Floor - Outdoor / Picnic Area

  • Access to the ground floor outdoor and picnic area is located at the rear of the café.
  • There are double manual doors leading out to the outdoor seating.
  • There is a long slight slope or 11 steps to access the picnic area.
  • There are no surfaced paths around the picnic area.
  • The picnic area is grass.
  • There are picnic tables available.
  • The height from to the surface of the picnic table is 79cm.

Eating and Drinking (Hub Café)

  • Location and Access View
    • The following information is for the café.
    • The café is located to the right of the ground exhibition space.
    • There is step-free access to the café.
  • Service and Menus View
    • There is a counter where food and drink can be ordered.
    • Staff can bring food and/or drinks to tables.
    • Menu types include: written wall menus.
    • Menus are clearly written.
    • Menus are presented in contrasting colours.
    • Staff can read menus to customers if requested.
    • The type of food served here is hot and cold meals and snacks.
    • Plastic/takeaway cups are available.
    • Adapted cups are not available.
    • Adapted cutlery is not available.
    • Drinking straws are available.
    • This area does play background music.
    • There is not a hearing assistance system .
  • Service Counter(s) View
    • The height of the counter is 95cm.
    • The height of the tray counter/rail is 90cm.
    • There is a moveable card machine available for payment.
  • Tables and Seating View
    • There is ample room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre.
    • The majority of tables are accessible to wheelchair users.
    • The standard height for the underside of dining tables is 71cm.
    • No tables are permanently fixed.
    • No chairs are permanently fixed.
    • No chairs have armrests on both sides.
    • In this area there are long tables and bench seats.
    • The type of flooring in this area is vinyl.
    • There is some flooring which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
    • When the Science Centre is open for school/group bookings only, there is additional long tables and bench seating available.
      The height from the floor to the underside of these tables is 68cm.
      There is an external seating area, which is accessed by manual double doors.

Shop (Ground Floor)

  • The majority of aisle widths are 150cm+.
  • The type of flooring is vinyl.
  • There is flooring which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.
  • There is good colour contrast between the walls and floor in all areas.
  • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • The till(s) is/are located at the rear of the shop.
  • There is step-free access to the till(s).
  • There is a clear unobstructed route to the till(s).
  • The till(s) is/are not clearly signed.
  • There are no windows, TVs, glazed screens or mirrors at/behind the till(s).
  • The till(s) is/are placed in front of a plain background.
  • The lighting levels at the till(s) are moderate to good.
  • The chip & pin card machines are accessible from the till(s).
  • The height of the till(s) is/are 79cm.
  • There is not a lowered section at the till(s).
  • There is not a hearing assistance system at the till(s).

Accessible Toilet(s) (Ground Floor - Left Hand Transfer)

  • There is an/are accessible toilet(s) available.
  • Location and Access View
    • This accessible toilet is located to the left as you enter the main exhibition area.
    • There is step-free access into the accessible toilet.
    • This is a shared toilet.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • There is pictorial and written text signage on or near the toilet door.
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is easy to open.
    • The door is locked by a twist lock.
    • The width of the accessible toilet opening is 87cm (2ft 10in).
    • The contrast between the internal door and wall is good.
    • The door has a horizontal grab rail.
    • The contrast between the horizontal grab rail and internal door is good.
  • Toilet Features View
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 230cm x 230cm (7ft 7in x 7ft 7in).
    • The accessible toilet does have an unobstructed minimum turning space of 150cm x 150cm.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the left.
    • The lateral transfer space is 165cm (5ft 5in).
    • The transfer space is obstructed by a sanitary bin.
    • There is a flush on the transfer side.
    • There is a spatula type lever flush.
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • The contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall is good.
    • There is a/are wall-mounted grab rail(s) available.
    • As you face the toilet the wall-mounted grab rail(s) is/are on both sides.
    • There is a vertical wall-mounted grab rail on the transfer side.
    • There is a horizontal wall-mounted grab rail on the opposite side of the seat to the transfer space.
    • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • There is an emergency alarm.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is fully functional.
    • There is a red flashing fire alarm beacon within the toilet.
    • Disposal facilities are available in the toilet.
    • There is a/are sanitary, nappy/incontinence items bin and general waste (with no lid) disposal units.
    • There is a/are coat hook(s).
    • There are coat hooks in the toilet at 115cm and 160cm from the floor.
  • Additional Fixtures View
    • There is a mirror.
    • The mirror is placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • There is not a shelf within the accessible toilet.
    • The toilet has a cistern.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 45cm (1ft 6in).
    • The toilet seat colour contrast is poor.
    • 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).
    • The contrast between the toilet roll holder and the wall is good.
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin and tap(s) cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
    • There is a vertical wall-mounted grab rail on the left hand side of the wash basin.
    • The contrast between the wash basin wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • The wash basin tap type is twist turn mixer.
    • There is a wall fixed soap dispenser.
    • The soap dispenser cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The height of the soap dispenser is 81cm.
    • 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).
    • The contrast between the towel dispenser and the wall is good.
    • There is not a hand dryer.
  • Accessible Shower View
    • The shower does have an unobstructed minimum 150cm x 150cm turning space.
    • There is a shower unit with a detachable shower head.
    • The shower head is height adjustable.
    • The adjustable shower head can be placed between 105cm and 185cm when mounted.
    • There is a flip-down/tip-up seat for the shower.
    • The seat/chair is height adjustable.
    • The height of the flip-down/tip-up or fixed seat is 55cm (1ft 10in).
    • There are not horizontal and/or dropdown rails available on both sides of the shower seat.
    • There is a vertical grab rail for the shower.
    • The colour contrast between the vertical grab rail(s) for the shower and wall is poor.
    • There is not an emergency alarm for the shower.

Standard Toilet(s) (Ground Floor)

  • Standard toilet facilities are available.
  • Toilet Facilities View
    • The gender neutral toilet is located to the left of the admissions area.
    • There is step-free access into the toilet(s).
    • The colour contrast between the external toilet door(s) and wall(s) is good.
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • An ambulant toilet cubicle is not available.
    • The height of the wash basin(s) is 84cm.
    • The wash basin(s) tap type is push.
    • Lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • Toilet Facilities 2 View
    • The female and male toilets are located to the left after you enter the main exhibition area.
    • There is step-free access to the toilet(s).
    • The colour contrast between the external toilet door(s) and wall(s) is good.
    • There is pictorial and written text signage on or near the toilet door.
    • An ambulant toilet cubicle is not available.
    • The height of the wash basin(s) is 73cm.
    • The wash basin(s) tap type is push.
    • Lighting levels are moderate to good.

Parent and Baby Room (Ground Floor)

  • There is a parent and baby room for public use.
  • The parent and baby room is located to the left after you enter the main exhibition area.
  • There is step-free access into the parent and baby room.
  • Staff do not need to be notified for use of the room.
  • There is pictorial signage on or near the parent and baby room door.
  • The baby change table is not set against the wall, permanently fixed at 75cm from the floor.
  • The baby change table is not height adjustable.
  • The height of the baby change table once extended is 85cm (2ft 9in).
  • There are disposal facilities in the parent and baby room.
  • There is a wash basin in the parent and baby room.
  • The height of the wash basin is 83cm.
  • The wash basin tap type is push.
  • There is/are not chair(s) in the parent and baby room.
  • There is a toilet in the parent and baby room.
  • There is not a flashing fire alarm beacon within the room.
  • The lighting levels are moderate to good.

Other Floors (Ground Floor to Lower Ground Floor)

  • Stairs View
    • Stairs can be used to access other floors.
    • The stairs are for public use.
    • The stairs are located to the rear left of the ground floor exhibition area.
    • Signs indicating the location of the stairs are not available from the entrance.
    • The floors which are accessible by stairs are G, LG.
    • There are 15+ steps between floors.
    • The height of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 15cm and 18cm.
    • The steps do have open risers.
    • The depth of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 30cm and 45cm.
    • The steps are not clearly marked.
    • There is a/are handrail(s) at the step(s).
    • The steps have a handrail on both sides.
    • Handrails are not at the recommended height (90cm-100cm).
    • Handrails do cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
    • Handrails are easy to grip.
    • Handrails do not extend horizontally beyond the first and last steps.
    • There is a landing.
    • Clear signs indicating the facilities on each floor are provided on landings.
    • The lighting levels at the steps are moderate to good.

Lift (Ground Floor to Lower Ground Floor)

  • There is a lift for public use.
  • The lift is located at the rear of the ground floor exhibition area.
  • Signs indicating the location of the lift are not available from the entrance.
  • The lift is a standard lift.
  • A member of staff does not need to be notified for use of the lift.
  • The floors which are accessible by this lift are G, LG.
  • Clear signs indicating the facilities on each floor are provided on lift lobby landings.
  • There is a clear level manoeuvring space of 150cm × 150cm in front of the lift.
  • Lift doors do contrast visually with lift lobby walls.
  • The external controls for the lift are within 90cm - 110cm from the floor.
  • The colour contrast between the external lift controls and the control plate is poor.
  • The colour contrast between the external lift control plate and the wall is good.
  • The clear door width is 80cm (2ft 7in).
  • The dimensions of the lift are 108cm x 150cm (3ft 7in x 4ft 11in).
  • There are separate entry and exit doors in the lift.
  • There is not a mirror to aid reversing out of the lift.
  • There is not a list of floor services available within the lift.
  • The lift does not have a visual floor indicator.
  • The lift does have an audible announcer.
  • The internal controls for the lift are within 90cm - 120cm from the floor.
  • There is not a hearing loop system.
  • The lift does not have Braille markings.
  • The lift does have tactile markings.
  • The lighting levels in the lift are moderate to good.
  • Comments View
    • The lift doors on the lower ground floor do not visually contrast with the surrounding walls.

Attraction / Exhibit (Lower Ground Floor - Explorer Space)

  • Entrance / Opening View
    • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
    • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
    • There is step-free access at this entrance/opening.
  • Attraction / Exhibit View
    • There is step-free level access throughout this area.
    • Clear directional signage is provided in this area.
    • During busy periods this area can become congested.
    • The type of flooring in this area is vinyl.
    • There is some flooring which includes patterns or colours which could be confusing or look like steps or holes to some people.
    • There is flooring which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.
    • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are not provided in this area.
    • This area does play background music/sound.
    • Strobe lighting/flashing lights are used in this area.
    • There are resting/seating areas within this area.
    • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in pictorial, information board and television/screen format.
    • There are some exhibits which start from the floor level.
    • The distance between the lowest exhibit and the floor is 59cm.
    • The majority of the exhibitions are interactive, the height of the controls varies between 59cm to 100cm from the floor.
      There is clear space beneath the exhibitions for wheelchair users.
      There are 3 clearly marked steps with the handrails on the left, to access the astronaut outfit and photo opportunity.
    • There is a poor colour contrast between the walls and the floor in this area.
    • The lighting levels in this area are low to moderate.
  • Exit View
    • Visitors exit via the entrance/opening.

Attraction / Exhibit (Lower Ground Floor - The Little Big Room)

  • Entrance / Opening View
    • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
    • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
  • Attraction / Exhibit View
    • There is not step-free level access throughout this area.
    • The nature of the exhibition means that the room has a steep slope leading from the entrance to the rear of the room.
    • The type of flooring in this area is vinyl.
    • There is flooring which includes patterns or colours which could be confusing or look like steps or holes to some people.
    • This area does not play background music/sound.
    • There are television screens for visitors to see inside the room and there is a viewing window to show the room looking smaller, the height of the viewing window is 130cm from the floor.
    • There is a good colour contrast between the walls and the floor in this area.
    • The lighting levels in this area are moderate to good.
  • Exit View
    • Visitors exit via the entrance/opening.

Lower Ground Floor - Science Live and Science Theatres

  • Science Live is an event space located next to the Explorer Space exhibition area.
  • The Science Theatre is located to the left of the lifts.
  • There is step free access to the Science Live area.
  • The Science Theatre has seating available, the layout of which depends on the event taking place.
  • There is priority seating available and spaces can be made to accommodate wheelchair users.
  • The surface of the flooring vinyl.
  • They are both used for variety of events, talks and science demonstrations.

Lower Ground Floor - Recombobulation Room

  • The Recombobulation Room is located next to the café on the lower ground floor.
  • There is step free access to the room.
  • The room has no doors, the opening to the room is 145cm wide.
  • There is step free access throughout the room.
  • The surface of the room is soft mat.
  • There is a chair without armrests available.
  • The walls and ceiling of the room are sound proofed.
  • The lighting levels are adjustable.

Eating and Drinking (Lower Ground Floor - Hut Café)

  • Location and Access View
    • The following information is for the café.
    • The café is located ahead as you exit the lift.
    • There is step-free access to the café.
  • Service and Menus View
    • There is a counter where food and drink can be ordered.
    • Staff can bring food and/or drinks to tables.
    • Menu types include: written wall menus.
    • Menus are clearly written.
    • Menus are presented in contrasting colours.
    • Staff can read menus to customers if requested.
    • The type of food served here is hot and cold meals and snacks.
    • Plastic/takeaway cups are available.
    • Adapted cups are not available.
    • Adapted cutlery is not available.
    • Drinking straws are available.
    • This area does play background music.
  • Service Counter(s) View
    • The height of the counter is 84cm.
  • Tables and Seating View
    • There is ample room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre.
    • The majority of tables are accessible to wheelchair users.
    • The standard height for the underside of dining tables is 70cm.
    • No tables are permanently fixed.
    • No chairs are permanently fixed.
    • No chairs have armrests on both sides.
    • The type of flooring in this area is carpet.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.

Lower Ground Floor - Outdoor / Picnic Area

  • The outdoor picnic area is located on the lower ground floor.
  • The doors to the outside are located next to the café seating area.
  • There are two sets of double doors to the outside, both sets of the doors open away from you and are 170cm wide.
  • There is short steep ramp just beyond the entrance.
  • Both doors have two sets of ramps, which are 75cm wide. The width of the ramps combined together is 150cm but they are not connected.
  • There are no surfaced paths, the outdoor area is a grass lawn.
  • There are a number of picnic tables, there is not space beneath for a wheelchair user.
  • The height from the floor to the surface of the picnic table is 79cm.

Lower Ground Floor - Blue and Green Classrooms

  • The Blue and Green Classrooms are located within Explore Space exhibition area.
  • There is step free access to both rooms.
  • Both rooms are accessed by single doors which open towards you and they are 87cm wide.
  • The surface of the flooring in both rooms is vinyl.
  • The height of the work stations are 70cm and 73cm.

Lower Ground Floor - Sun and Moon Classrooms

  • The Sun and Moon Classrooms are located within the Science Theatre.
  • There is step free access to both rooms.
  • Both rooms are accessed by double doors which open away from you and they are 160cm wide.
  • The surface of the flooring in the Sun Room is carpet and the surface of the flooring in the Moon Room is vinyl.
  • The height of the work stations are 73cm.

Changing Places (Lower Ground Floor)

  • Location and Access View
    • The facility is located at the rear of the explorer space.
    • The facility is in addition to standard and accessible toilets.
    • The facility is not located close to other managed facilities (e.g. reception or service counter).
    • There is level access into the facility.
    • The facility surveyed is for the sole use of disabled people.
    • The colour contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • The colour contrast between the internal door and wall is good.
    • You do need a key for the facility.
    • The key is a radar key.
    • The key can be obtained from a member of staff.
    • There is not a sign at the entrance to the Changing Places facility indicating the location of the nearest toilets and baby changing facilities.
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the door.
    • The door opens inwards.
    • The door is easy to open.
    • The door is locked by a locking handle.
    • The door has a horizontal grab rail.
    • The width of the door is 93cm (3ft 1in).
    • The dimensions of the facility are 270cm x 500cm.
    • The ceiling height is at a minimum of 2.4m.
    • There is a clear 200cm x 180cm manoeuvring space in the facility.
    • The facility has a non-slip floor.
    • The colour contrast between the walls and floor is good.
  • Toilet Details View
    • The facility toilet has a transfer space on both sides.
    • The transfer space on the right as you face the toilet is 160cm.
    • The transfer space on the left as you face the toilet is 155cm.
    • Dropdown rails are provided.
    • As you face the toilet the dropdown rail(s) is/are on both sides.
    • The colour contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall is good.
    • As you face the toilet there are vertical grab rails on both sides.
    • The colour contrast between the wall-mounted grab rails to the left of the toilet and wall is good.
    • The colour contrast between the wall-mounted grab rails to the right of the toilet and wall is good.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 48cm (1ft 7in).
    • There is a spatula flush.
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet has a cistern.
    • The toilet seat colour contrast is good.
    • There is an emergency alarm for the toilet.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is within reach and fully functional.
  • Changing Bench and Hoist Details View
    • The facility changing bench is wall mounted.
    • The facility changing bench height is adjustable.
    • The length of the facility changing bench is 180cm (5ft 11in).
    • The facility hoist is powered overhead.
    • The overhead hoist covers all areas in the cubicle.
  • Shower Details View
    • There is not a shower unit with a detachable shower head.
  • Other Facilities View
    • A privacy screen is available.
    • The type of wash basin is adjustable.
    • The wash basin tap type is lever.
    • There is not a mixer tap.
    • Wall mounted grab rails are available at the wash basin.
    • As you face the wash basin, the wall mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • The colour contrast between the wash basin grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • There is a soap dispenser.
    • The soap dispenser is at the recommended height of 80cm-100cm.
    • Wide tear off paper roll is available.
    • The wide paper roll dispenser is at the recommended height of 80cm-100cm.
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer is at the recommended height of 80cm-100cm.
    • There is a towel dispenser.
    • The towel dispenser is at the recommended height of 80cm-100cm.
    • There is a mirror.
    • The mirror is placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • There is not a shelf next to the toilet.
    • There is a/are female sanitary and general domestic waste disposal units.
    • There is not an emergency alarm for the facility.
    • There is a coat hook.
    • There are coat hooks in the toilet at 105cm and 140cm from the floor.
    • There is a flashing fire alarm beacon within the toilet.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.

Accessible Toilet(s) (Lower Ground Floor - Left Hand Transfer)

  • There is an/are accessible toilet(s) available.
  • Location and Access View
    • This accessible toilet is located at the rear of the Explorer Space exhibition area.
    • There is step-free access into the accessible toilet.
    • This is a shared toilet.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • There is pictorial and written text signage on or near the toilet door.
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is easy to open.
    • The door is locked by a twist lock.
    • The width of the accessible toilet opening is 87cm (2ft 10in).
    • The contrast between the internal door and wall is good.
    • The door has a horizontal grab rail.
    • The contrast between the horizontal grab rail and internal door is good.
  • Toilet Features View
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 270cm x 330cm (8ft 10in x 10ft 10in).
    • The accessible toilet does have an unobstructed minimum turning space of 150cm x 150cm.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the left.
    • The lateral transfer space is 220cm (7ft 3in).
    • The transfer space is obstructed by a sanitary bin.
    • There is a flush on the transfer side.
    • There is a spatula type lever flush.
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • The contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall is good.
    • There is a/are wall-mounted grab rail(s) available.
    • As you face the toilet the wall-mounted grab rail(s) is/are on both sides.
    • There is a vertical wall-mounted grab rail on the transfer side.
    • There is a horizontal wall-mounted grab rail on the opposite side of the seat to the transfer space.
    • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • There is an emergency alarm.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is fully functional.
    • There is a red flashing fire alarm beacon within the toilet.
    • Disposal facilities are available in the toilet.
    • There is a/are sanitary, nappy/incontinence items bin and general waste (with lid) disposal units.
    • There is a/are coat hook(s).
    • The height of the coat hook is 105cm from the floor.
  • Additional Fixtures View
    • There is a mirror.
    • The mirror is placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • There is a shelf within the accessible toilet.
    • The shelf has the minimum dimensions of 12.5cm x 40cm.
    • The shelf is at a height of 100cm.
    • The shelf is located where it is reachable.
    • The toilet has a cistern.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 48cm (1ft 7in).
    • The toilet seat colour contrast is good.
    • 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).
    • The contrast between the toilet roll holder and the wall is good.
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin and tap(s) can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
    • There are vertical wall-mounted grab rails on both sides of the wash basin.
    • The contrast between the wash basin wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • The wash basin tap type is lever mixer.
    • There is a wall fixed soap dispenser.
    • The soap dispenser can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The height of the soap dispenser is 90cm.
    • 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).
    • The contrast between the towel dispenser and the wall is good.
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The contrast between the hand dryer and the wall is good.
  • Baby Changing Facilities View
    • Baby changing facilities are located within the accessible toilet.
    • There is a flip down baby change table available.
    • The height of the baby change table is 90cm.