The Mowat Entrance
BCLASS-TopCentre
When the Parliament Buildings were constructed, few provisions were made concerning their accessibility. However, recent efforts have been undertaken to reduce physical impediments throughout the
Legislative Precinct. In 2013, a new entrance was unveiled at the front of the buildings to enhance barrier-free access. It was named the Mowat Entrance after Doug Mowat, the first MLA to use a wheelchair while in office, and features a wide, gently curving ramp that exceeds modern building codes and greatly improves accessibility into the Parliament Buildings.
Moving forward, the Parliament Buildings will continue to be adapted to serve as a modern workplace environment, all while ensuring that they retain their original character and splendour.
did you know?
Doug Mowat was a tireless advocate for those living with spinal cord injuries and disabilities, spending years working with the B.C. Paraplegic Foundation and the B.C. Paraplegic Association. Similarly, the next MLA to use a wheelchair in the Legislative Assembly, Stephanie Cadieux, also worked for the B.C. Paraplegic Association (now SCI-BC) and is herself a strong advocate for those with mobility restrictions both inside and outside of the Assembly.