Media office

Marketing Birmingham has launched a new on-line service designed to improve accessibility in the city of Birmingham and its attractions.
 
The web pages, at www.visitbirmingham.com/navigatebirmingham, feature a route planner graphically displaying accessible routes from drop off points such as the nearest bus stop or car park.
 
Disabled and first time visitors, parents with pushchairs and those carrying luggage can benefit from photographs and detailed directions that can be printed off in advance, or accessed via a 3G phone connection using the free WiFi in the city centre.
 
Tim Manson, Director of Operations & Policy at Marketing Birmingham said:  “Large cities and major tourist attractions can feel confusing, not only for disabled and older people, but also if it’s the first time you have visited. We have developed this new facility to illustrate how convenient and accessible the city is and encourage everyone to come and experience it.”

“We are now working across the city to encourage more businesses to get involved. The majority have been very receptive; particularly those with a strong sense of corporate and social responsibility. It has a positive impact on the way the city is perceived and we are particularly keen to involve hotels over the coming months.”

The service is available through the Information section of visitbirmingham.com and includes venues such as Cadbury World, The ICC and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. It also includes a complete cross-city route and an assessment of many city centre shopping areas including Bullring.
 
The access information has been compiled by researchers at Direct Enquiries and takes into account a number of potential obstacles including steps, road crossings and widths of pathways. The Direct Enquiries service also provides a wider service detailing access information for services including banks and public toilets.
 
Grant Kennedy, Chief Executive, Direct Enquiries commented: “One in four Europeans are directly affected by a disability, add to that families with pushchairs and older visitors with mobility difficulties and you are looking at a significant proportion of the population. This service enables people to make informed decisions before leaving home and helps to avoid any potential inconvenience.”

Download 031Navigate_Birmingham (.pdf 117.63 KB)