MP welcomes disabled access

Stirling MP Stephen Kerr welcomed proposals to make Bannockburn Visitor Centre more accessible for disabled people and the wider community.

He was speaking after visiting the centre and speaking to its operations manager Jonathan Brown.

Mr Kerr has been supporting the installation of dedicated ‘ Changing Places’facilities into visitor locations so that those with a wide range of disability, and their families , can enjoy them in the same way as everyone else.

Mr Kerr said the centre already had a disabled toilet and shower accessible by lift.

He added:“It would appear to only need some relatively minor work to facilitate the installation of a hoist and changing table that would turn it into a fully equipped‘changing places’facility.”

During the meeting with Mr Kerr, Mr Brown spoke about how important it was for disabled people to be able to access the centre, and also outlined how he wanted the centre to be used much more by the local community and organisations across Stirling.

Staff at the centre have sought guidance from those with disabilities as they draw up plans to improve the visitor experience.

They are working with the Wallace Monument team to put these ideas into action at both locations.

One of the measures being looked at is turning on the lights throughout the Battle Experience so those with Aspergers appreciate the historical battle much more.

Mr Kerr added: ”I am very impressed by Jonathan’s desire to improve access. The centre at present does a good job of being accessible to people, but there is always more to be done to ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to learn more about the momentous events that took place here. “

Mr Brown added:“We are always looking at ways to improve access and inclusivity and how we engage with the community. We’ll be drawing up some plans for future developments and will keep Mr Kerr up to date on the issue.”