Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – For the first time, the Ghent Festivities will feature a raised wheelchair platform at Korenmarkt, enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for attendees.
To guarantee that individuals with disabilities may take part in the Ghent Festivities in Belgium, the city is also going above and above in other areas. For instance, they have access to at least one performance each day. Many shows will also have sign language interpreters available.
The municipal council is working with professionals to ensure that everyone can participate in the Ghent Festivities. To make sure the different squares are accessible to those with disabilities, they pre-screen them.
Wheelchair users now have access to an elevated platform at the Korenmarkt for the first time. However, organizer Tineke De Rijck believes it wasn’t simple to provide such a platform.
“This is a very challenging square, with lots of access roads. But we managed to provide a wheelchair platform for the first time. It’s small, but I’m glad we have one.”
“This year, for the first time, we’re also having several concerts with sign language, and we also have people with disabilities participating in the Ghent Festivities. I have a daughter with a disability myself, so it’s close to my heart.”
There is also a wheelchair platform at Boomtown, St-Baafs and Sint-Jacobs.
However, during the Ghent Festivities, there are even more amenities for those with disabilities.
Wheelchair transport is available to wheelchair users daily from 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
For those with restricted mobility, there are extra parking spots close to the event area. They can be found in a number of places, including Reep, Henegouwenstraat, Steendam, Ottogracht, Poel, Kongostraat, and Ferdinand Lousbergskaai. Additionally, Henegouwenstraat offers a Kiss & Ride service for pickup and drop-off.
For those who are less mobile, there is also a bicycle taxi service. Until midnight, these taxis will take guests to and from the festival area.
During the Ghent Festivities, those with impairments can also request a complimentary companion to enter and remain in the festival area.
People with impairments can attend at least one performance each day of the Ghent Festivities. Performances in wheelchair-accessible venues or those featuring audio descriptions, subtitles, etc. may fall under this category.
What steps are being taken in Ghent to make Ghent festivities more inclusive for people?
For the first time, a dedicated raised viewing platform will be available for wheelchair users at major event locations. This platform allows for an unobstructed view of performances, addressing previous accessibility challenges caused by large crowds.
Each day, at least one performance will be specifically made accessible. This might involve adjusted seating areas, visual and audio support, or performances designed with the needs of disabled visitors in mind.
Many events will offer live sign language interpretation, making performances more inclusive for deaf and hard-of-hearing attendees.
The city is also focusing on barrier-free routes, extra accessible toilets, volunteer assistance, and improving informational materials on accessibility (available both online and at information stands).
