Overview

When supporting a gentleman who uses a wheelchair this summer, frequently we will take ourselves into Leeds city centre for various activities. The Merrion Centre (Off Albion st, near the First Direct Arena) is usually our first stop as it is well supplied with buses and is wheelchair friendly. The buses themselves (52,51) are not the most reliable in terms of time but when they arrive the drivers are helpful and apologetic if the wheelchair space is occupied. It should be noted when the wheelchair space is occupied by someone other than a wheelchair user, the drivers have been willing to ask people to move on our behalf. The Merrion Centre is flat to the road at the North end and has ramps at the south. We use the Merrion to shop, get a cup of tea and sometimes get a hair cut. JR's barbers, where we visit is wheelchair friendly with helpful, friendly staff who do a great job of engaging the man I support. Outside there is a Caffe Nero where we go for a drink. The entrance is flat to the ground, the layout allows for wheelchair movement and the tables are tall enough to accommodate the chair. We will often browse shops. Key ones to hit at Cex, HMV and Whsmith. We have stopped going to Cex as much since my customer likes to browse films and these have been moved downstairs. Cex has no lift or ramp so it's now impossible for us to view the films. HMV fares better. Although it is over three floors there is a lift that is big enough for us both to ride and the entrance is flat to the ground. (Cex has a small step to navigate). WHsmith is also flat to the ground however to my knowledge is there is no lift to access upstairs. Other shops we have visited that have lifts for wheelchairs and wheelchair access include Tk Maxx, Sports Direct, Primark and Game. A few more we have tried to access that were difficult in a wheelchair include Crash Records, Forbidden Planet and Travelling Man. Pret a Manger is across the road and provides some trouble as the inside is very cramped. There is generous outdoor seating if the weather is pleasant. Leeds is mostly pedestrianized. This is a great help navigating the hilly city centre with a wheelchair. The headrow (main road) is easily crossable as it have traffic islands, pelican crossings and the traffic is slowed on this road. Also the headrow is a pick up point for Leeds City Council Taxis and, if needs be, there is frequently a wheelchair taxi available.

Transport & Parking

Access

Toilets

We haven't yet had the need to use the toilets, however there are ample disabled access toilets dotted around the city centre.

Staff