VENUE ACCESS INFORMATION AND ACCESS STATEMENT FOR DISABLED VISITOR
Introduction
The Swale Assembly is an indoor music venue, set in Sittingbourne's historic high street and is one of Swale's newest Independent venues.
We offer a warm welcome to everyone and aim to offer an excellent level of service to all our customers. We really want you to enjoy your time with us so if anything happens while you are at The Swale Assembly, please speak to one of our staff and ask to speak to the Duty Manager who will deal with your queries as best they can.
The Venue
The Swale Assembly is set in the old Burton building with a standing capacity of 230. The Venue is fully standing. It must be noted these are maximums and minimum be reduced depending on the type of event, audience profile expected and also staff and artist requirements.
Car Parking
Unfortunately there is no on-site parking at the venue. There are several car parks in Sittingbourne town centre including the Central Car Park on Central Avenue and the Forum Shopping Centre car park. On-street parking is also available on surrounding streets. Please read signs where you choose to park and be mindful of parking restrictions. Please read signs where you choose to park - there are private spaces in the vicinity. Please do not obstruct neighbouring businesses. Normal parking rules apply - wardens do patrol the area.
Public Transport
Public Transport – The Venue has good public transport links. Buses run frequently from all nearby areas (Maidstone, Faversham, Sheerness, Chatham) and stop at Sittingbourne town centre which is just a short walk from the venue. Services are operated by Stagecoach and Chalkwell. Closest train station to The Swale Assembly is Sittingbourne Station (5 minute walk). There is a high speed link to London from this station (approximately 1 hour to London St Pancras). Sittingbourne also has services to London Victoria, and connects to Faversham, Margate, Ramsgate, and the Isle of Sheppey.
Building Entrance
The Swale Assembly's main entrance is located on the side of the building and the venue is accessed up one flight of stairs. We regret that The Swale Assembly does not currently have wheelchair access or step-free entry to the venue. We are aware this limits accessibility for some members of our community and we are exploring options to improve this in the future. We do not own the building so we are limited in the structural changes we can make.
Getting Around
Once inside the building there is level access through-out
Entry
All bags and large coats are searched on entry. We can arrange early entry for disabled guests as it could be helpful to familiarise yourself with the building before you attend an event.
Venue Plans
Standard and large print plans of the Venue are available on request.
Assistance Dogs
We welcome assistance dogs and a bowl of water can be provided if requested.
Accessible Toilets
The Swale Assembly does not have disabled toilets. We are aware this limits accessibility for some members of our community and we are exploring options to improve this in the future. We do not own the building so we are limited in the structural changes we can make.
Fire Alarm
The Swale Assembly has both audible and visual alarms. A member of staff will assist in the event of a fire alarm.
Access Statement
Although we make every attempt to make The Swale Assembly accessible as possible, aspects of the building make it difficult to make everything fully accessible. If you have any questions please feel free to email venue@theswaleassembly.com
Carer tickets
Carer tickets are free, all we require is a email venue@theswaleassembly.com stating your name, show you are attending and that you require a free carer ticket. For disabled tickets please buy a standard ticket.
Contact us
The Swale Assembly, 76a High St, Sittingbourne, ME10 4PB www.theswaleassembly.com venue@theswaleassembly.com