Background
Dramatically sited on top of a wooded hill, Dunster Castle has existed there since at least Norman times, with an impressive medieval gatehouse and ruined tower giving a reminder of its turbulent history. Home of the Luttrell family for more than 600 years, the present building was remodelled in 1868–72 by Antony Salvin. The fine oak staircase and plasterwork ceiling he adapted can still be seen. Visitors can relax on the sunny sheltered south terrace, which is home to a variety of subtropical plants. Panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and moorland complete the experience.
Project Objectives
Dunster Castle needed to provide access for visitors to inaccessible parts of the castle and their main objectives were:
- Increase visitor rate with this stair access solution
- Provide easy operation for staff to enable disabled persons to visit otherwise unattainable parts of the castle via the fine oak staircase
- Provide an easy to use solution, encouraging regular visits from disabled customers
- Provide a comfortable solution for customers to go up and down stairs in a safe and dignified manner
- Offer regular maintenance and training programs
Baronmead Solution
Baronmead’s solution was to recommend and supply a TO9 Wheelchair Carrier mobile stairclimber and wheelchair.
Our solution included a 1 year service contract, delivery and training for up to 8 staff onsite.
The manager decided to take a ‘Train the Trainer’ course supplied by Baronmead so they could train their own staff in the future.