Disabled woman calls Swindon theatre visit ‘a death trap’

She called the route to the Wyvern Theatre’s accessible entrance ‘a death trap’, and said she worries that wintry conditions could make it even worse.

Swindon Borough Council has said it will "investigate", as "everyone should be able to move around our town safely".

The wheelchair user contacted the Adver to raise concerns about the ‘dangerous’ drop kerb and pavement leading to the accessible entrance ramp.

People who are unable to use the rainbow-coloured staircase near Princes Street must travel around the corner onto Regent Place, where there are two step-free points to get onto the pavement.

The one closest to the theatre’s accessible entrance has been criticised for being too difficult for disabled guests with mobility issues to safely use.

The visitor, who wished to be anonymous, said she relied on the help of other people to navigate the paving from the road to the ramp.

She added: “The dropped kerb is at a very steep incline and there’s a tree right in front of the top of it – who designed that?

“Then you turn right and the pavement itself is on a camber, then there’s another tree next to the bottom of the ramp.

“It’s a nightmare on the way in and a death trap on the way out, as you could easily slip out of your chair or go into the road because you’re leaning forward so much.

“I feared for my life, it was horrific, it would make someone never want to come back to that theatre – and be even worse if it’s rainy or icy.

“It’s certainly put me off. it’s not a nice evening out and needs to be changed so that it’s flatter with no dips or slants.”

There is another, less steep drop kerb on flatter paving further away, near the exit to the Princes Street car park, though anyone who uses that to get onto the pavement must still traverse the slanted stretch near the closer drop kerb to reach the ramp.

The ramp itself, which winds up to the entrance doors, is not an issue, it is believed.

The Adver has gone down to inspect the issue, and provided pictures of how difficult it could be for wheelchair users.

Councillor Matthew Vallender, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Planning and Regeneration, said: “Everyone should be able to move around our town safely and confidently, regardless of their mobility needs.

“We’ve asked officers to investigate this issue as a priority and identify the best solution to ensure the area remains safe and accessible for all users.”