Information on assisted access to Solihull Arts Complex for people with disabilities
Arriving at the Venue
Approaching by car, aim for the Touchwood car park immediately adjacent to the venue on Homer Road. Once inside follow signs for Arts Complex into the Orange zone. There are marked extra width spaces near lift & escalators up to ground floor of Touchwood. Also in this area you will find the Shopmobility counter (Tel: 0121 711 4231). Motorised scooters/wheelchairs can be made available for use to reach the venue by arrangement. Exit Touchwood by the glass doors into Library square where the Central Library & Arts Complex is less than 100yd walk.
For those arriving by taxi Touchwood currently operates a '15 minutes grace' period so that your driver can drop you near the lift and then exit immediately without charge. Touchwood operates a helpline number (0121 709 6900) for daytime enquiries.
For those arriving by large minibus or coach, the nearest drop-off point is in Manor Square adjacent to the Council House, approach via New Road. From Manor Square, cross Touchwood towards the Library square exit. This approach is indoor and all on one level. Alternatively, coaches can briefly drop-off at the rear of the building in Homer Road, however this involves a short uphill walk up the side of the building into Library square. If you still have access difficulties please contact Operations Manager on 0121 704 6754 to discuss.
Theatre
A 336 seater auditorium with 17 removable front row seats to accommodate around 10 wheelchairs and up to 5 freestanding carer/helper seats.
The auditorium has raked seating with two aisles. There are no handrails down the aisles but we have fitted ‘grab rails’ at each end of seat rows to assist and support audiences whilst using the stairs.
Rows A-G are best approached from ground floor entrance - H-P are accessed via a staircase of 24 steps. Access is provided via the Arts Complex passenger lift (suitable for wheelchairs) which is located in the foyer on the right hand side of the main doors. This takes you up to the Gallery on the first floor which is in easy walking distance of the Theatre entrance on the upper level making the back of the theatre accessible to all (except wheelchair users).
Backstage Access for Performers
The theatre is fully equipped with three wheelchair lifts allowing access onto the stage and backstage and spacious toilet/shower facilities in ground floor dressing rooms. Please contact Operations Manager on 0121 704 6754 if you have any queries regarding taking part in a stage performance.
Studio
The Studio is a multi-use performance area located on the ground floor just off the foyer and cafe bar. Access is flat with double-width entry doors.
Gallery
G1 and G2 exhibition spaces and the Heritage gallery spaces are located on the first floor of the Central Library. Access is via staircase from Cafe bar (24 steps) Central Library Staircase (26 steps) or from the passenger lift during library opening hours.
Guide Dogs and Hearing Dogs
Trained dogs are very welcome to accompany visitors to the Arts Complex. When booking tickets please discuss your intention to bring a dog and request a front seat for the space and comfort of your dog. If required, water can be made available for your dog - please make a request to a Steward or Cafe Bar Staff who will be happy to oblige.
If you wish to attend a drama production with a trained hearing dog, please seek advice regarding content of the show i.e. doorbells, telephones or other 'trigger' sounds which may influence your dogs behaviour. Box Office staff will make enquiries on your behalf to the performers concerned.
Signed Performances
During pantomime, at least one evening performance will be (BSL) signed by a trained and competent theatre signer. They will stand to the left of stage with suitable lighting. Deaf audiences are warmly invited to join us, bringing carer/helper/companion free of charge if they wish, please make your requirements known to Box Office at the time of booking.
Hearing Loop
There is a hearing loop in operation in the theatre. Hearing aids should be switched to the 't' position. There is also a hearing loop in the Tourist Information and Booking Office.
Strobe Lighting
When a performance contains strobe lighting signs will be displayed near both entrance doors. If you have any concerns about the timing and duration of the strobing please speak to either a ticket steward or Front of House Manager who will obtain accurate details on your behalf.
Upon arrival, if you feel unable to attend on the grounds of the information provided, we will happily refund the cost of your ticket, prior to the commencement of the show. Please consult the Front of House Manager for advice.
Wheelchair Access and Mobility Problems
Front row seats are at ground level and are reserved for those with mobility or access needs until the rest of the auditorium is approaching sell-out. Please call Box Office with your ticket requirements and make known any concerns or needs you may have at the point of booking. Staff will advise and assist you to obtain the best possible seating to ensure your visit is both accessible and enjoyable.
Toilets
There are wheelchair accessible toilet facilities on ground floor (off cafe bar) and first floor (near gallery area). Both toilets contain well designed modern facilities.
Taped Brochure
A taped version of the brochure script can be sent you upon request. Please contact Box Office or email: artscomplex@solihull.gov.uk
Large Print Brochure Copy
A black and white large version of the brochure can be provided upon request to above.
Here to help
If you have concerns regarding access to our facilities please call Box Office to discuss your requirements. We cannot change our location, nor the roads and buildings around the venue, but it is our aim that once inside our venue is open and accessible to all. If you have any comments, compliments or complaints, we would like to hear them. If we don't know - we can't help!
Contact Details
If you require further assistance please contact 0121 704 6754 or email artscomplex@solihull.gov.uk
