Case Studies - The only way is up!

New Vic Theatre – Newcastle under Lyme, Staffordshire

Every year, around 10,000 young people work with the New Vic Theatre as part of their award-winning community programme. With over 100 projects, as well as producing 10 major plays a year, ease of access to their new state-of-the-art community studio and prop and costume storage area was essential.

After approaching the Platform Lift Company through their trusted building contractors, the New Vic Theatre was told that an A99 Type lift would be best suited to their needs. A Key Switch was requested and added on the Carriage. This works to control who can access the basement, where all the costumes are stored. The Key Switch ensures only authorised members of staff can access this floor.

During the installation of the A99 Type lift minimal disruption was caused to the building, known as ‘WorkSpace’, as only a 200mm pit has to be dug in the floor. A small location fixing is attached to the walls, and floors making this lift the ideal solution for this and most other buildings.

With a load capacity of 1000kgs available in a range of sizes, the A99 Type lift is perfect for wheelchair users and moving props and equipment from floor to floor.

In addition, The New Vic Theatre opted for the two glazed panels at each landing which ensured the lift remained contemporary and in-keeping with the venue’s décor, but also creating increased lighting to the inside of the lift - thus benefiting the users. The lift stops at 3 levels; basement, ground, and first.

David Sunnuck, Front of House Manager at the New Vic Theatre, comments, “On the whole, the lift has been very reliable. It is now easier for wheelchair users and for our stage management team, who are often moving large props around. We are delighted with the result.”

For more information visit: www.platformliftco.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0) 1256 896000