Business Name: Festival Place
Business Type: shopping centre
Business Website: https://www.festivalplace.co.uk

Audit Date: 20/04/2024
Description:
The establishment appears to be wheelchair accessible, with a flat entrance and no steps. However, there seems to be a challenge for individuals who require the use of a disabled toilet and do not possess a RADAR key. The signage on the toilet door instructs individuals to obtain the key from the center management or information desk, but it fails to specify the location of these facilities.
It took us over an hour to locate the customer lounge, which is where the RADAR key could be obtained. This may pose a significant inconvenience for individuals with urgent needs, as the customer lounge is not situated near the toilets. Additionally, I noticed that the customer lounge has a quiet room, but its existence is not adequately publicized. Many shoppers who could have benefited from this facility were unaware of its availability.
There is a lack of clear signage, particularly for essential locations such as the customer lounge. Additionally, the establishment’s policy of being “dog friendly” can be challenging for individuals who rely on assistance dogs. The presence of other dogs can be distracting and disruptive, making it difficult for assistance dogs to focus on their work. This situation may discourage shoppers with assistance dogs from visiting the establishment. Therefore, it is important for assistance dog handlers to be aware of this potential issue.