‘Fuss-free’ coaches set to boost Moorsline accessibility
THE North Yorkshire Moors Railway has announced a new partnership with Visit England to help promote the national park for people with access requirements.
The railway is one of a select number of businesses involved in The North York Moors Accessibility Project, an initiative to help the region’s tourism bounce back from the Covid-19 pandemic and funded by Visit England.
A core element of the line’s accessibility offering will be four fully accessible ‘fuss-free’ coaches which are being launched in April 2023 as part of the £10 million Yorkshire’s Magnificent Journey project.
All carriage sets in service will contain one historic coach that has been specially adapted to ease access for everyone with access requirements, and accommodate them with their friends and family.
The coaches benefit from ramps, accessible toilets, and accessible seating areas.
NYMR’s deputy CEO and director of corporate services, Laura Strangeway, said: “We want as many people as possible to enjoy our fabulous heritage railway and this Visit England partnership will allow us to ensure every facet is accessible to all.
“It’s an exciting time and we hope to have as many people as possible with us on the journey.”
The NYMR has also secured s106 funding with Visit England support to equip itself with a wide range equipment, from portable hearing loops and large-handled cutlery to toilet raisers and magnifiers.
The project is being supported by Access For All UK, which will be giving free mentoring, including site visits and advice, to help venues put together their own accessibility guides.