The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Virtual reality makes stadium accessible to all
Tannadice: Touring app lets users take a virtual walk around United ground
Dundee United’s Tannadice stadium will now be accessible to everyone after a local company developed a virtual reality touring app.
Dundee company OOVIRT have teamed up with Dundee United to offer the country’s first VR stadium tour, which will allow disabled people and those with mobility issues the chance to visit previously inaccessible areas of Tannadice.
Fans will be able to navigate their way around various sections of the stadium, taking a “virtual walk” from the outside to the accessible seating area, as well as the players’ tunnel, the dressing rooms and the hospitality areas.
Further to this, they will be able to test out the view from any section of the five stands, including parts previously only accessible via long flights of stairs.
Almost the entire ground has been captured digitally, as well as the club shop.
Tourist body Visit Scotland estimates accessible tourism could add an additional £1.3 billion to the economy each year and Dundee United said they were taking part in the programme to make football “available for all”.
OOVIRT offer a number of virtual tours of local landmarks – including Dundee University’s Dalhousie building and Claypotts Castle.
Disability campaigner Claire D’all said having access to a virtual tour of Tannadice before visiting would be very useful for less-abled visitors.
She said although she was not an outand-out football fan, she was hopeful more sports clubs and venues would take on board the progress United have made in making Tannadice a more accessible place to visit.
“I think having the virtual tour of Tannadice football stadium is great for everyone, as it diminishes any fears they may have before visiting,” she said.
“As a wheelchair user I like to plan when visiting someplace new and know what accessibility features are available to me, such as disabled toilets.
“Being able to visually see where I’m going and read information regarding dimensions of certain areas beforehand is very useful.
“My dad and his side of my family are Dundee United supporters so I would say if I had to support any team it would be them, especially because they are taking the time to be accessible to everyone.
“The campaign PAMIS are running for Changing Place toilets has my full support, because it’s not just about getting inside a venue but also enjoying your visit too.
“Hotels are a great example of where accessible tourism needs to be improved.”
pamalik@thecourier.co.uk