Post by Funky-Fran on Sept 7, 2002 12:35:06 GMT -5
New access rules open buildings to all
John Prescott’s office has released “tough” new regulations to ensure public and commercial buildings are accessible to all.
The design regulations – announced last week - mean architects and developers must take “reasonable steps” to improve access in new buildings.
These steps will include the construction of ramps and the provision of clearer signage.
The regulations will also affect changes made to existing buildings when they are altered or undergo changes of use.
A spokesperson for the office of the Deputy Prime Minister explained that while the Disability Discrimination Act focuses on the provision of services inside buildings, the new Part M design regulations are an attempt to open up the buildings themselves.
Maria Eagle, Minister for Disabled People, welcomed the plans, saying they would ensure disabled people had access to many buildings and services “from which they have been unfairly excluded for far too long.”
But the Disability Rights Commission (DRC), although pleased with the plans, highlighted the need for further legislation.
DRC policy officer Andrew Shipley said: “One major concern is that the new rules do not cover the environment outside of the building, which currently has no specific regulations”.
He said further rules were required to ensure highway and local authorities made the external environment equally accessible.
Stephanie Hughes 4 Sept, 2002
John Prescott’s office has released “tough” new regulations to ensure public and commercial buildings are accessible to all.
The design regulations – announced last week - mean architects and developers must take “reasonable steps” to improve access in new buildings.
These steps will include the construction of ramps and the provision of clearer signage.
The regulations will also affect changes made to existing buildings when they are altered or undergo changes of use.
A spokesperson for the office of the Deputy Prime Minister explained that while the Disability Discrimination Act focuses on the provision of services inside buildings, the new Part M design regulations are an attempt to open up the buildings themselves.
Maria Eagle, Minister for Disabled People, welcomed the plans, saying they would ensure disabled people had access to many buildings and services “from which they have been unfairly excluded for far too long.”
But the Disability Rights Commission (DRC), although pleased with the plans, highlighted the need for further legislation.
DRC policy officer Andrew Shipley said: “One major concern is that the new rules do not cover the environment outside of the building, which currently has no specific regulations”.
He said further rules were required to ensure highway and local authorities made the external environment equally accessible.
Stephanie Hughes 4 Sept, 2002