Subscribe to Whizz-Kidz NewsWhizz-Kid helps launch world’s first water-and-solar powered wheelchair lift at the London Festival of Architecture
Karl Woods, a 19 year old wheelchair user from Bermondsey and ambassador for the youth mobility charity Whizz-Kidz, helped unveil the very first water-and-solar powered accessible lift – set atop the historic Duke of York steps in London – this month.
The lift, created by Matthew Lloyd Architects, has been designed to raise public awareness around access and sustainability – firmly placing the key issues of inclusive design and equal access under the spotlight.
After Karl descended the steps using the lift, he said:
“I think this is a great idea, as it lets disabled people become as independent as possible – and it’s a good idea to try and make more parts of London accessible; especially as in 2012 it hosts the Paralympic Games.
“The lift really does the job and, if made permanent, will benefit disabled Londoners as well as disabled people from around the world. We know projects like this cost money but it is all worth it to make London a truly accessible city. I was proud to be one of the first to try it out and represent young wheelchair-users through Whizz-Kidz.”
Developed in close collaboration with disability arts groups AIO and Shape, the design aims to demonstrate how equal access can be given architectural prominence on the centre stage – a direct contrast to the vast majority of accessible lifts which are often hidden away or sidelined from view. Whizz-Kidz supports young disabled people to be more independent through obtaining the right equipment and skills, and also champions initiatives that make environments more accessible to disabled people. The Royal Engineers, RIBA London, and the Royal Parks provided invaluable advice and support.
The lift will be in place at the top of the Duke of York Steps for the duration of the 2010 biennial London Festival of Architecture – the UK’s largest celebration of architecture taking place in the capital between June 19th and July 4th.
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