Beinn Eighe NNR Visitor Centre and Trails
An 'Access for All' Case Study

Visitor Centre continued

click on picture to enlarge
14.
 The audiovisual presentation features sub-titles. With the plasma screens we have used a text height of 44mm at a viewing distance of three metres, which is the minimum standard — larger text heights are better where possible.
click to enlarge
15.
 On-screen information is refreshed and not scrolled, with the information displayed for a sufficient amount of time to be read. Scrolling causes difficulties of tracking, particularly for those with visual impairments or learning/literacy difficulties (and visitors where English is not their first language) even if the scrolling is at a reasonably slow rate.
click to enlarge
16.
 We used colour contrast and prominent handles to increase the visibility of the moveable panels on the mountain jigsaw activity wall.
click to enlarge
17.
 Sound is a feature on all the touch screen interactives. Sounds in a centre need to be assessed — use signs if required.
click to enlarge
18.
 There are small stools at all touch screen computers so that people can use these as rest points.
click to enlarge
19.
 The mural on the floor has similar shades and the shapes are organic. This is to avoid lines and bright splashes of colour as these can draw the eye and confuse. In addition, we avoided a gloss varnish as this could reflect light and make the floor look slippy.
click to enlarge
20.
 Our original intention was to construct a bridge over a burn in the visitor centre. This bridge would have had a glass base. We abandoned this idea, however, because some wheelchair users might worry that the weight of their chair would break the glass. We were also concerned that the changing floor surface and moving water underneath could confuse people with visual impairments. As an alternative, the raised flooring includes a simple water feature.
21.
 With the bird interactive, the handles and birds do not extend out into the path areas so visitors cannot walk into them. There are a range of heights, as recommended for wheelchair users, and this also suits most children.
click to enlarge
22.
 The bird exhibit also shows people the size and proportions of birds that they are unlikely ever to see close-up.
click to enlarge
23.
 We placed a curtain at the Sensory Zone entrance, but we left the space open so that people could see what it contains. This alerts visitors to its presence and they can make an informed choice on whether to go in.
24.
 Listening posts for sounds interactives feature a headphone with written answers nearby.
click to enlarge
25.

The low-level reception point lies next to the entrance. It is open below to allow ease of access for wheelchair users. The presence of staff gives visitors the chance to meet people associated with the reserve/area.
click to enlarge
26.
 The reception point does not have hearing loops because the centre staff are able to come up close to the visitor and speak directly to them. The staff have an important role in telling visitors with disabilities about the opportunities available to explore the countryside and make the most of their visit.