Accessibility at Durham Cricket
Accessibility at Durham Cricket
At Durham Cricket, we are committed to ensuring Banks Homes Riverside is a welcoming, inclusive and enjoyable venue for all supporters. We work continuously to improve accessibility across the ground so that every visitor can experience live cricket comfortably, confidently and safely.
We believe cricket should be accessible to everyone, and we are proud to provide a range of facilities and services to support disabled supporters and those with additional needs.
This page is designed to help visitors plan their visit with confidence by providing information on the facilities, services, and support available before arriving at Durham Cricket, ensuring everyone can enjoy their matchday experience.
Access Around the Ground
Banks Homes Riverside offers step-free access to key areas of the venue to support wheelchair users and any visitors with reduced mobility.
Accessible routes are signposted throughout the ground, and stewards are available to help supporters move safely and comfortably between spectator stands, indoor suites, and facilities.
Wheelchair Access
Wheelchair-accessible routes are available throughout the venue, including access to:
- Viewing areas
- Hospitality and event spaces
- Toilet facilities
- Food and drink outlets
- Other public areas around the ground (eg, the multi-faith space)
Dedicated accessible seating areas are positioned to provide excellent views of the action, with companion seating available nearby where required.
Supporters requiring accessible seating are encouraged to contact us via phone or email in advance so we can help provide the best possible matchday experience.
Accessible Entrance & Box Office
At Gate 2, the Box Office includes lowered access windows to better support wheelchair users and supporters with additional accessibility requirements.
Stewards and staff are available on arrival to assist supporters entering the ground if required.
Hearing Loops
Hearing loop systems are available within the Club Shop to support supporters who are deaf or hard of hearing.
If additional assistance is required during your visit, please speak to a member of staff who will be able to help.
Accessible Toilets
Accessible toilet facilities are located throughout the venue and are signposted around the ground. Please do feel free to ask staff or stewards for your closest accessible bathroom when you get into the venue.
Changing Places Facility
Banks Homes Riverside is proud to provide a fully equipped Changing Places facility for supporters with complex disabilities and care needs.
The facility includes:
- Height-adjustable adult changing bench
- Ceiling track hoist system
- Accessible toilet
- Spacious changing area
The introduction of this facility reflects Durham Cricket’s commitment to ensuring supporters can attend fixtures with dignity, comfort and independence.
Supporters wishing to use the facility are encouraged to get in contact ahead of their visit for any additional information or support to be available from staff.
Sensory Room
Our dedicated Sensory Room provides a calm and low-stimulation environment for supporters who may benefit from a quieter matchday experience. Similarly, to reduce overstimulation, please do get in touch if you would like to enter via Gate 0, as this is available as a quiet entrance to the ground.
The sensory room has been designed to support individuals with:
- Autism
- Sensory sensitivities
- Anxiety
- Additional neurological or cognitive needs
Located within the ground with views of the action, the space allows supporters to enjoy cricket in a more comfortable and controlled environment away from the noise and crowds often associated with live sport.
Due to limited capacity, please contact Durham Cricket before attending fixtures to discuss availability.
Multi-Faith Room
A dedicated Multi-Faith Room is available during matchdays and events for prayer, reflection or quiet time.
The room is open to supporters, staff and visitors of all faiths and beliefs and forms part of Durham Cricket’s wider commitment to inclusion and wellbeing.
Visually Impaired Commentary
Durham Cricket offers a volunteer-led commentary service for visually impaired supporters, helping fans stay connected to every moment of the matchday experience.
The service aims to provide detailed ball-by-ball commentary and match updates to enhance accessibility for blind and partially sighted supporters attending fixtures at Banks Homes Riverside. Please do get in touch if you would like to listen to a match.
Accessible Parking & Travel
Accessible parking spaces are available for Blue Badge holders both within the grounds and in nearby public parking areas, subject to availability.
Supporters requiring accessible parking are encouraged to contact the Club in advance of attending a fixture so appropriate arrangements can be discussed where possible.
Banks Homes Riverside can also be accessed via:
- Chester-le-Street Railway Station (approximately a 15–20 minute walk from the ground)
- Local bus services
- Matchday shuttle and park & ride services for men’s internationals
We continue to work towards improving accessibility and transport information for all supporters visiting the venue.
Matchday Assistance
Our stewarding, customer service and event teams are available throughout matchdays to support supporters with accessibility requirements. If you require assistance during your visit, please speak to a member of staff who will be able to help.
Ticketing & Supporters with Additional Needs
Durham Cricket aims to make ticket purchasing and matchday attendance as straightforward and accessible as possible for all supporters.
If you have any accessibility requirements or would like to discuss seating, parking or any additional support ahead of your visit, please contact our team directly.
We understand every supporter’s needs are different and will always do our best to accommodate requests wherever possible.
Safety & Matchday Information
Please note:
- Major matchdays operate cashless payments across the venue
- Security and bag searches are in operation at all fixtures
- Accessible routes are signposted throughout the ground
- Matchday stewards are available throughout the venue to assist supporters
We recommend arriving early for major fixtures to allow extra time for parking, entry and assistance if required.
Community & Inclusion
Durham Cricket is proud to support inclusive cricket initiatives across the region and continues to work with local organisations, disability groups and community partners to improve accessibility both at the ground and across the wider game.
We recognise accessibility is an ongoing journey, and we remain committed to listening, learning and improving wherever possible to ensure cricket is a game for everyone.
Contact Us
If you have any questions regarding accessibility, accessible seating, parking, facilities or any additional support requirements, please contact our team:
Telephone: 0191 387 1717
Email: box.office@durhamcricket.co.uk
We are committed to ensuring Durham Cricket remains a welcoming and inclusive venue for all supporters.