Designing Buildings - User contributions [en]

Lifetime homes

2015-06-22T13:04:23Z

Buro Happold Inclusive Design:

The Lifetime Homes standard was developed by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation Lifetime Homes Group in 1991. The standard is now promoted by the [http://www.lifetimehomes.org.uk/ Foundation for Lifetime Homes and Neighbourhoods], established in 2010, which comprises Age UK, the Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA), and Habinteg, a housing association originally set up by Scope. The administration and technical support for Lifetime Homes is provided by Habinteg, who took on this responsibility for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.

The Foundation for Lifetime Homes and Neighbourhoods suggests that, “Lifetime Homes make life as easy as possible for as long as possible because they are thoughtfully designed. They provide accessible and adaptable accommodation for everyone, from young families to older people and individuals with a temporary or permanent physical impairment…. Bringing Lifetime Homes design into the general housing stock should, over time, allow older people to stay in their own homes for longer, reduce the need for home adaptations and give greater choice to disabled people who cannot achieve independent living due to lack of suitable housing.”

The Lifetime Homes concept is based on five overarching principles:
*Inclusivity.
*Accessibility.
*Adaptability.
*Sustainability.
*Good value.

It then sets out 16 criteria for accessibility and inclusive design to provide for the needs of occupants and the community:
*Car parking width.
*Moving from the parking space to the home.
*Approach to the home.
*Entrances.
*Communal stairs and lifts.
*Doorways & hallways.
*Space to turn and move around.
*Living room.
*Convenient bed-space.
*Accessible WC and potential shower.
*Bathroom walls.
*Getting upstairs - possibility for stair lift and future through floor lift.
*Getting between bedroom and bathroom - potential hoist.
*Bathroom layout.
*Windows.
*Sockets and controls.

Some local planning policies require that the Lifetime Homes standard is adopted in new developments, or recommend that it is. In Wales and Northern Ireland, new publicly-funded homes are required comply with the Lifetime Homes Standard.

In February 2008 the UK Government announced its intention to work towards all new homes being built to Lifetime Homes Standards by 2013 (ref [http://www.cpa.org.uk/cpa/lifetimehomes.pdf Lifetime Homes, Lifetime Neighbourhoods A National Strategy for Housing in an Ageing Society]) and in November 2010, changes were made to the Code for Sustainable Homes incorporating revisions to the Lifetime Homes Standard.

However, as part of the government’s housing and construction 'Red Tape Challenge', there has been a move to consolidated standards into a national framework centred on the Building Regulations.

The government suggests that the large number of competing standards can be confusing, and that “standards are all drawn from documents produced by non-Governmental groups who perceive that current national guidance, policy or regulation is deficient in some respect, and needs to be supplemented. They are rarely subject to cost benefit analysis when they are developed, unlike government guidance or regulation”.

As a consequence, the Code for Sustainable homes can no longer be a requirement of planning conditions, and where a local planning authority adopts a policy to provide enhanced accessibility or adaptability they should do so only by reference to Requirement M4(2) and / or M4(3) of the optional requirements in the Building Regulations. <br/>

The requirement for Lifetime Homes standard in the London Plan will be replaced by the new M4(2) optional requirement in the Building Regulations.

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===
*Accessible London.
*Affordable housing.
*Approved document M.
*Changing lifestyles.
*Code for sustainable homes.
*Home quality mark.
*Housing Design SPG.
*Housing standards review.
*Inclusive design.
*Lifetime neighbourhoods.
*London plan.
*Nationally described space standard.

[[Category:Planning_permission]]
[[Category:Standards_/_measurements]]

Access and inclusion in the built environment: policy and guidance

2015-04-28T12:27:39Z

Buro Happold Inclusive Design:

'''Access and inclusion in the built environment: policy and guidance - as exemplified by London approach.'''

The need to address inclusive design from concept stage onwards is embedded in the planning process within London far more so than many other parts of the country. The key areas for consideration for designers are:
*The London Plan.
*The Equality Act 2010.
*The Building Regulations.
*The Principles of Inclusive Design.
*The Olympic and Paralympic Games precedent.
*The National Planning Policy Framework.

= The London Plan 2011 =

In preparing the policies of The London Plan, the London Mayor has had regard to the principle that there should be equality of opportunity for all people. The policies therefore seek to tackle the issues of deprivation and inequalities amongst Londoners.
*Policy 1.1 of the London Plan states an objective to create ...''a city of diverse, strong, secure and accessible neighbourhoods. ''Inclusive design and the need to tackle inequality is implicit in all aspects of the London Plan and is specifically mentioned in a number of policy areas, as outlined below:
*Policy 3.1: Ensuring equal life chances. The mayor is committed to ensuring equal life chances for all Londoners. Development proposals should have regard to the Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG): [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/consultations/draft-supplementary-planning-guidance-on-accessible-london Accessible London] and other guidance produced by the Mayor.
*Policy 3.8: Housing choice. All new housing is built to [http://www.lifetimehomes.org.uk/ The Lifetime Homes] standards and ten per cent of new housing is designed to be wheelchair accessible, or easily adaptable for residents who are wheelchair users.
*Policy 3.16: Protection and enhancement of social infrastructure. Social infrastructure should be accessible to all sections of the community including disabled and older people.
*Policy 3.19: Sports facilities. Inequality in access to sport and physical activity should be addressed.
*Policy 4.6: Support and enhance the provision for arts, culture and entertainment. Cultural developments should be accessible to all sectors of the community.
*Policy 6.13: Parking. The provision of parking for disabled people is highlighted within this policy, including within car free developments.
*Policy 7.1: Lifetime neighbourhoods. People should have a good qualityenvironment in an active and supportive local community based on the lifetime neighbourhoods principles
*Policy 7.2: Inclusive environment. The Mayor will require all new development in London to achieve the highest standards of accessible and inclusive design.
*Policy 7.5: Public realm: London’s public spaces should be secure, accessible, easy to understand and maintain.
*Policy 7.6: Architecture. Buildings and structures should meet the principles of inclusive design.

== Olympic Legacy Supplementary Planning Guidance, July 2012 ==

The Mayor has also published [http://www.london.gov.uk/publication/olympic-legacy-supplementary-planning-guidance Supplementary Planning Guidance] (SPG) in relation to the Olympic Legacy. This guidance includes an appendix focused on inclusive design setting out what is expected of developers.

The SPG promotes the delivery of lifetime neighbourhoods and stable sustainable communities that they define as '''safe and inclusive, well planned, built and run, and offer equality of opportunity and good services for all'''.'''''

== '''Planning for Equality and Diversity in London SPG (2007)''' ==

The Supplementary Planning Guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/vision/supplementary-planning-guidance Planning for Equality and Diversity in London] (2007) relates to the implementation of policies that seek to address the needs of different communities in London. The themes addressed include:
*Urban design and public realm: linked to crime, personal safety, mobility and accessibility.
*Accessible, inclusive and safe environments: linked to accessibility, personal safety, discrimination and social exclusion.
*Access to employment and training opportunities: linked to social exclusion, discrimination and poverty.
*Access to open space and recreational areas.
*Provision of leisure and recreational facilities.

== '''Accessible London: Achieving an Inclusive Environment (2014)''' ==

This SPG provides guidance on the implementation of '''London Plan Policy 7.2 An inclusive environment '''and of other policies in the Plan with specific reference to inclusive design . [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/consultations/draft-supplementary-planning-guidance-on-accessible-london Accessible London: Achieving an Inclusive Environment] (2014) aims to promote social inclusion and seeks to help eliminate discrimination.

= The Equality Act 2010 =

Under Section 149 of [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents The Equality Act 2010], planning authorities such as the GLA and London Legacy Development Corporation, through the execution of their functions, have a duty to have regard to the need to:
*Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation
*Advance equality of opportunity
*Foster good relations between communities

The Equality Act consolidates the three previous duties covering race, disability and gender, bringing them together into a single duty, and extends it to cover the ‘protected characteristics’ of age, sexual orientation, religion or belief, pregnancy and maternity, and gender reassignment.

= The Building Regulations =

[http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/ Part M of the Building Regulations] sets out legal minimum requirements for promoting access to and use of buildings. Whereas previous versions of the Regulations focused on the specific needs of disabled people, the 2004 edition of [http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/approved Approved Document M] promotes an approach to inclusive design that reflects the needs of all people.

= The Principles of Inclusive Design =

Published by CABE in 2006, [http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110118095356/http:/www.cabe.org.uk/files/the-principles-of-inclusive-design.pdf The Principles of Inclusive Design] stressed that inclusive design is fundamental to good design. Acknowledging that the way places are designed affects our ability to move, see, hear and communicate effectively, the document states that inclusive design is about making places which everyone can use. By removing the barriers that create undue effort and separation, it enables everyone to participate equally, confidently and independently in everyday activities.

Inclusive design:
*Places people at the heart of the design process.
*Acknowledges diversity and difference.
*Offers choice where a single design solution cannot accommodate all users.
*Provides for flexibility in use.
*Provides buildings and environments that are convenient and enjoyable to use for everyone.

= The Olympic and Paralympic Games precedent =

The Olympic Delivery Authority’s (ODA) delivery of the venues and infrastructure required to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games has set an important precedent in terms of exceeding legal minimum access requirements and incorporating best practice inclusive design. London’s winning bid to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games set out a commitment to delivering ‘the most accessible Games ever’.

As part of this the ODA developed the [http://learninglegacy.london2012.com/publications/inclusive-design-standards.php ODA Inclusive Design Standards] (2008). These are award winning standards which principally apply to the Olympic Park and venues during the 2012 Games, but which cover many issues relevant to the legacy schemes. As such, the parklands, public realm and venues inherited after 2012 have been built to a high standard of inclusive design. The Legacy Community Scheme planning application made a continued commitment to the provision of an inclusive environment and the development of inclusive neighbourhoods.

= '''The National Planning Policy Framework''' =

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets out the government’s planning policies for England and how these are expected to be applied. A large number of Planning Policy Statements and Planning Policy Guidance have been replaced by the framework (although unless specifically revoked by the framework, existing policies remain effective).

Good design is a key aspect of sustainable development. It is indivisible from good planning and should contribute positively to making places better for people. The NPPF highlights that it is important to plan positively for the achievement of high quality and inclusive design for all development, including individual buildings, public and private spaces and wider area development schemes.

The NPPF notes that although visual appearance and the architecture of individual buildings are very important factors, securing high quality and inclusive design goes beyond aesthetic considerations. Therefore, planning policies and decisions should address the connections between people and places and the integration of new development into the natural, built and historic environment.

----

This article was written by --[[User%3ABuro%20Happold|Buro]][[User%3ABuro%20Happold|Happold]] 08:36, 12 August 2012 (BST)

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===
*Accessible London.
*Approved document M.
*Building Regulations.
*CABE.
*Changing lifestyles.
*Equality Act.
*Inclusive design.
*Masterplanning.
*National Planning Policy Framework.
*Smart cities.
*Sustainability.
*The London Plan.

=== External references ===
*[http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/londonplan The London Plan].
*[http://www.lifetimehomes.org.uk/ The Lifetime Homes].
*[http://www.london.gov.uk/publication/olympic-legacy-supplementary-planning-guidance Supplementary Planning Guidance in relation to the Olympic Legacy].
*Supplementary Planning Guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/vision/supplementary-planning-guidance Planning for Equality and Diversity in London] (2007).
*Supplementary Planning Guidance: [https://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/publications/accessible-london-achieving-an-inclusive-environment Achieving an Inclusive Environment] (2014).
*[http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents The Equality Act 2010].
*[http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/ Part M of Building Regulations].
*[http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/approved Approved Document M].
*[http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110118095356/http:/www.cabe.org.uk/files/the-principles-of-inclusive-design.pdf The Principles of Inclusive Design].
*[http://learninglegacy.london2012.com/publications/inclusive-design-standards.php ODA Inclusive Design Standards] (2008).
*[http://www.designcouncil.org.uk/projects/inclusive-environments Design Council Inclusive Design Hub]

[[Category:Policy]]
[[Category:Design]]

Access and inclusion in the built environment: policy and guidance

2012-10-11T13:13:57Z

Buro Happold Inclusive Design:

'''Access and inclusion in the built environment: policy and guidance - as exemplified by London approach.'''

The need to address inclusive design from concept stage onwards is embedded in the planning process within London far more so than many other parts of the country. The key areas for consideration for designers are:

*The London Plan.
*The Equality Act 2010.
*The Building Regulations.
*The Principles of Inclusive Design.
*The Olympic and Paralympic Games precedent.
*The National Planning Policy Framework.

= The London Plan 2011 =

In preparing the policies of [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/londonplan The London Plan], the London Mayor has had regard to the principle that there should be equality of opportunity for all people. The policies therefore seek to tackle the issues of deprivation and inequalities amongst Londoners.

*Policy 1.1 of the London Plan states an objective to create ...''a city of diverse, strong, secure and accessible neighbourhoods. ''Inclusive design and the need to tackle inequality is implicit in all aspects of the London Plan and is specifically mentioned in a number of policy areas, as outlined below:
*Policy 3.1: Ensuring equal life chances. The mayor is committed to ensuring equal life chances for all Londoners. Development proposals should have regard to the Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG): [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/vision/supplementary-planning-guidance Accessible London] and other guidance produced by the Mayor.
*Policy 3.8: Housing choice. All new housing is built to [http://www.lifetimehomes.org.uk/ The Lifetime Homes] standards and ten per cent of new housing is designed to be wheelchair accessible, or easily adaptable for residents who are wheelchair users.
*Policy 3.16: Protection and enhancement of social infrastructure. Social infrastructure should be accessible to all sections of the community including disabled and older people.
*Policy 3.19: Sports facilities. Inequality in access to sport and physical activity should be addressed.
*Policy 4.6: Support and enhance the provision for arts, culture and entertainment. Cultural developments should be accessible to all sectors of the community.
*Policy 6.13: Parking. The provision of parking for disabled people is highlighted within this policy, including within car free developments.
*Policy 7.2: Inclusive environment. The Mayor will require all new development in London to achieve the highest standards of accessible and inclusive design.
*Policy 7.5: Public realm: London’s public spaces should be secure, accessible, easy to understand and maintain.
*Policy 7.6: Architecture. Buildings and structures should meet the principles of inclusive design.

== Olympic Legacy Supplementary Planning Guidance, July 2012 ==

The Mayor has also published [http://www.london.gov.uk/publication/olympic-legacy-supplementary-planning-guidance Supplementary Planning Guidance] (SPG) in relation to the Olympic Legacy. This guidance includes an appendix focused on inclusive design setting out what is expected of developers.

The SPG promotes the delivery of lifetime neighbourhoods and stable sustainable communities that they define as '''safe and inclusive, well planned, built and run, and offer equality of opportunity and good services for all'''.'''''

== '''Planning for Equality and Diversity in London SPG (2007)''' ==

The Supplementary Planning Guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/vision/supplementary-planning-guidance Planning for Equality and Diversity in London] (2007) relates to the implementation of policies that seek to address the needs of different communities in London. The themes addressed include:

*Urban design and public realm: linked to crime, personal safety, mobility and accessibility.
*Accessible, inclusive and safe environments: linked to accessibility, personal safety, discrimination and social exclusion.
*Access to employment and training opportunities: linked to social exclusion, discrimination and poverty.
*Access to open space and recreational areas.
*Provision of leisure and recreational facilities.

== '''Accessible London SPG: Achieving an Inclusive Environment (2004)''' ==

The Supplementary Planning Guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/thelondonplan/guides/spg/spg_01.jsp Achieving an Inclusive Environment ](2004) aims to promote social inclusion and seeks to help eliminate discrimination. It states that: 'Buildings designed to be inclusive will be safe, predictable, convenient, flexible, adaptable, sustainable and legible and will be useable by all of us'.

= The Equality Act 2010 =

Under Section 149 of [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents The Equality Act 2010], planning authorities such as the GLA and London Legacy Development Corporation, through the execution of their functions, have a duty to have regard to the need to:

*Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation
*Advance equality of opportunity
*Foster good relations between communities

The Equality Act consolidates the three previous duties covering race, disability and gender, bringing them together into a single duty, and extends it to cover the ‘protected characteristics’ of age, sexual orientation, religion or belief, pregnancy and maternity, and gender reassignment.

= The Building Regulations =

[http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/ Part M of the Building Regulations] sets out legal minimum requirements for promoting access to and use of buildings. Whereas previous versions of the Regulations focused on the specific needs of disabled people, the 2004 edition of [http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/approved Approved Document M] promotes an approach to inclusive design that reflects the needs of all people.

= The Principles of Inclusive Design =

Published by CABE in 2006, [http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110118095356/http:/www.cabe.org.uk/files/the-principles-of-inclusive-design.pdf The Principles of Inclusive Design] stressed that inclusive design is fundamental to good design. Acknowledging that the way places are designed affects our ability to move, see, hear and communicate effectively, the document states that inclusive design is about making places which everyone can use. By removing the barriers that create undue effort and separation, it enables everyone to participate equally, confidently and independently in everyday activities.

Inclusive design:

*Places people at the heart of the design process.
*Acknowledges diversity and difference.
*Offers choice where a single design solution cannot accommodate all users.
*Provides for flexibility in use.
*Provides buildings and environments that are convenient and enjoyable to use for everyone.

= The Olympic and Paralympic Games precedent =

The Olympic Delivery Authority’s (ODA) delivery of the venues and infrastructure required to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games has set an important precedent in terms of exceeding legal minimum access requirements and incorporating best practice inclusive design. London’s winning bid to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games set out a commitment to delivering ‘the most accessible Games ever’.

As part of this the ODA developed the [http://learninglegacy.london2012.com/publications/inclusive-design-standards.php ODA Inclusive Design Standards] (2008). These are award winning standards which principally apply to the Olympic Park and venues during the 2012 Games, but which cover many issues relevant to the legacy schemes. As such, the parklands, public realm and venues inherited after 2012 have been built to a high standard of inclusive design. The [http://www.londonlegacy.co.uk/community/legacy-communities-scheme/ Legacy Community Scheme ]planning application made a continued commitment to the provision of an inclusive environment and the development of inclusive neighbourhoods.

= '''The National Planning Policy Framework''' =

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets out the government’s planning policies for England and how these are expected to be applied. A large number of Planning Policy Statements and Planning Policy Guidance have been replaced by the framework (although unless specifically revoked by the framework, existing policies remain effective).

Good design is a key aspect of sustainable development. It is indivisible from good planning and should contribute positively to making places better for people. The NPPF highlights that it is important to plan positively for the achievement of high quality and inclusive design for all development, including individual buildings, public and private spaces and wider area development schemes.

The NPPF notes that although visual appearance and the architecture of individual buildings are very important factors, securing high quality and inclusive design goes beyond aesthetic considerations. Therefore, planning policies and decisions should address the connections between people and places and the integration of new development into the natural, built and historic environment.

This article was written by --[[User:Buro Happold|Buro]][[User:Buro Happold|Happold]] 08:36, 12 August 2012 (BST)

= See also =

*Inclusive design.
*[http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/londonplan The London Plan].
*Supplementary planning guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/vision/supplementary-planning-guidance Accessible London]
*[http://www.lifetimehomes.org.uk/ The Lifetime Homes]
*[http://www.london.gov.uk/publication/olympic-legacy-supplementary-planning-guidance Supplementary Planning Guidance in relation to the Olympic Legacy]
*Supplementary Planning Guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/vision/supplementary-planning-guidance Planning for Equality and Diversity in London] (2007)
*Supplementary Planning Guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/thelondonplan/guides/spg/spg_01.jsp Achieving an Inclusive Environment](2004)
*[http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents The Equality Act 2010]
*[http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/ Part M of Building Regulations]
*[http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/approved Approved Document M]
*[http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110118095356/http:/www.cabe.org.uk/files/the-principles-of-inclusive-design.pdf The Principles of Inclusive Design]
*[http://learninglegacy.london2012.com/publications/inclusive-design-standards.php ODA Inclusive Design Standards] (2008)
*The [http://www.londonlegacy.co.uk/community/legacy-communities-scheme/ Legacy Community ][http://www.londonlegacy.co.uk/community/legacy-communities-scheme/ Scheme]planning application
*The National Planning Policy Framework

<br/>

[[Category:Design]]
[[Category:Other_legislation]]

Access consultant for building design and construction

2012-10-11T09:23:28Z

Buro Happold Inclusive Design:

Access Consultants provide professional advice on how to develop inclusive environments in accordance with the [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents Equality Act] 2010.

The [http://www.nrac.org.uk/ National Register of Access Consultants] (NRAC) is an independent register of accredited Access Auditors and Access Consultants who meet professional standards and criteria established by a peer review system. It is a UK-wide accreditation service for individuals who undertake access auditing and access consultancy.

The NRAC was established in 1999 as a project of the Centre for Accessible Environments, a charitable company limited by guarantee. It was initially funded by central government.

There are two types of membership of the National Register of Access Consultants - NRAC Consultant and NRAC Auditor.

== NRAC Auditors ==

NRAC Auditors have expertise in identifying access problems and give general advice on solutions. They possess a basic knowledge of construction.

They provide a professional service to business, public and other undertakings by:

*Comprehensively identifying and reporting on access issues as developed in the client brief. These may be audits or appraisals, and may include general advice on solutions.
*Providing access related policy and strategy advice, including design appraisals, development of access statements, access plans, access related strategies and policies.

Using their professional judgement, an NRAC Auditor should be able to identify the access requirements specific to the physical environment, and within the appropriate legislative context, considering all relevant factors. These will include legal requirements, client needs, best practice guidelines, practicality and user requirements.

== NRAC Consultants ==

NRAC Consultants can make recommendations and provide solutions of a technical and policy nature as well as identifying access problems. They possess a greater degree of construction knowledge than NRAC Auditors.

--[[User:Buro Happold Inclusive Design|Buro Happold Inclusive Design]] 10:23, 11 October 2012 (BST)

= See also =

*[http://www.nrac.org.uk/ National Register of Access Consultants].
*[http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents Equality Act].
*Inclusive design.
*Access and inclusion in the built environment: policy and guidance.

[[Category:Roles_/_services]]

Access consultant for building design and construction

2012-10-09T14:54:55Z

Buro Happold Inclusive Design: Protected "Access Consultant" ([edit=author] (indefinite))

'''Access Consultant'''

Access Consultants provide professional advice on how to develop inclusive environments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

The National Register of Access Consultants (NRAC) is an independent register of accredited Access Auditors and Access Consultants who meet professional standards and criteria established by a peer review system. It is a UK-wide accreditation service for individuals who undertake access auditing and access consultancy.

The NRAC was established in 1999 as a project of the Centre for Accessible Environments, a charitable company limited by guarantee. It was initially funded by central government. The NRAC is a resource for those seeking

There are two types of membership of the National Register of Access Consultants - NRAC Consultant and NRAC Auditor.

'''NRAC Auditors''' have expertise in identifying access problems and give general advice on solutions. They possess a basic knowledge of construction. They provide a professional service to business, public and other undertakings by

*comprehensively identifying and reporting on access issues as developed in the client brief. These may be audits or appraisals, and may include general advice on solutions.
*providing access related policy/strategy advice, including design appraisals, development of access statements, access plans, access related strategies and policies.

Using his or her professional judgement, an NRAC Auditor should be able to identify the access requirements specific to the physical environment, and within the appropriate legislative context, considering all relevant factors. These will include legal requirements, client needs best practice guidelines, practicality and user requirements.

'''NRAC Consultants''' can make recommendations and provide solutions of a technical and policy nature as well as identifying access problems. They possess a greater degree of construction knowledge than NRAC Auditors.

[[Category:Roles_/_services]]

Access consultant for building design and construction

2012-10-09T11:10:00Z

Buro Happold Inclusive Design: Created page with "'''Access Consultant''' Access Consultants provide professional advice on how to develop inclusive environments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010. The National Register ..."

Access and inclusion in the built environment: policy and guidance

2012-10-09T08:20:19Z

Buro Happold Inclusive Design:

'''Access and inclusion in the built environment: policy and guidance - as exemplified by London approach.'''

The need to address inclusive design from concept stage onwards is embedded in the planning process within London far more so than many other parts of the country. The key areas for consideration for designers are:

*The London Plan.
*The Equality Act 2010.
*The Building Regulations.
*The Principles of Inclusive Design.
*The Olympic and Paralympic Games precedent.
*The National Planning Policy Framework.

= The London Plan 2011 =

In preparing the policies of [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/londonplan The London Plan], the London Mayor has had regard to the principle that there should be equality of opportunity for all people. The policies therefore seek to tackle the issues of deprivation and inequalities amongst Londoners.

*Policy 1.1 of the London Plan states an objective to create ...''a city of diverse, strong, secure and accessible neighbourhoods. ''Inclusive design and the need to tackle inequality is implicit in all aspects of the London Plan and is specifically mentioned in a number of policy areas, as outlined below:
*Policy 3.1: Ensuring equal life chances. The mayor is committed to ensuring equal life chances for all Londoners. Development proposals should have regard to the Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG): [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/vision/supplementary-planning-guidance Accessible London] and other guidance produced by the Mayor.
*Policy 3.8: Housing choice. All new housing is built to [http://www.lifetimehomes.org.uk/ The Lifetime Homes] standards and ten per cent of new housing is designed to be wheelchair accessible, or easily adaptable for residents who are wheelchair users.
*Policy 3.16: Protection and enhancement of social infrastructure. Social infrastructure should be accessible to all sections of the community including disabled and older people.
*Policy 3.19: Sports facilities. Inequality in access to sport and physical activity should be addressed.
*Policy 4.6: Support and enhance the provision for arts, culture and entertainment. Cultural developments should be accessible to all sectors of the community.
*Policy 6.13: Parking. The provision of parking for disabled people is highlighted within this policy, including within car free developments.
*Policy 7.2: Inclusive environment. The Mayor will require all new development in London to achieve the highest standards of accessible and inclusive design.
*Policy 7.5: Public realm: London’s public spaces should be secure, accessible, easy to understand and maintain.
*Policy 7.6: Architecture. Buildings and structures should meet the principles of inclusive design.

== Olympic Legacy Supplementary Planning Guidance, July 2012 ==

The Mayor has also published [http://www.london.gov.uk/publication/olympic-legacy-supplementary-planning-guidance Supplementary Planning Guidance] (SPG) in relation to the Olympic Legacy. This guidance includes an appendix focused on inclusive design setting out what is expected of developers.

The SPG promotes the delivery of lifetime neighbourhoods and stable sustainable communities that they define as '''safe and inclusive, well planned, built and run, and offer equality of opportunity and good services for all'''.'''''

== '''Planning for Equality and Diversity in London SPG (2007)''' ==

The Supplementary Planning Guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/vision/supplementary-planning-guidance Planning for Equality and Diversity in London] (2007) relates to the implementation of policies that seek to address the needs of different communities in London. The themes addressed include:

*Urban design and public realm: linked to crime, personal safety, mobility and accessibility.
*Accessible, inclusive and safe environments: linked to accessibility, personal safety, discrimination and social exclusion.
*Access to employment and training opportunities: linked to social exclusion, discrimination and poverty.
*Access to open space and recreational areas.
*Provision of leisure and recreational facilities.

== '''Accessible London SPG: Achieving an Inclusive Environment (2004)''' ==

The Supplementary Planning Guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/thelondonplan/guides/spg/spg_01.jsp Achieving an Inclusive Environment ](2004) aims to promote social inclusion and seeks to help eliminate discrimination. It states that: 'Buildings designed to be inclusive will be safe, predictable, convenient, flexible, adaptable, sustainable and legible and will be useable by all of us'.

= The Equality Act 2010 =

Under Section 149 of [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents The Equality Act 2010], the London Legacy Development Corporation, through the execution of its functions, has a duty to have regard to the need to:

*Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation
*Advance equality of opportunity
*Foster good relations between communities

The Equality Act consolidates the three previous duties covering race, disability and gender, bringing them together into a single duty, and extends it to cover the ‘protected characteristics’ of age, sexual orientation, religion or belief, pregnancy and maternity, and gender reassignment.

= The Building Regulations =

[http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/ Part M of the Building Regulations] sets out legal minimum requirements for promoting access to and use of buildings. Whereas previous versions of the Regulations focused on the specific needs of disabled people, the 2004 edition of [http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/approved Approved Document M] promotes an approach to inclusive design that reflects the needs of all people.

= The Principles of Inclusive Design =

Published by CABE in 2006, [http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110118095356/http:/www.cabe.org.uk/files/the-principles-of-inclusive-design.pdf The Principles of Inclusive Design] stressed that inclusive design is fundamental to good design. Acknowledging that the way places are designed affects our ability to move, see, hear and communicate effectively, the document states that inclusive design is about making places which everyone can use. By removing the barriers that create undue effort and separation, it enables everyone to participate equally, confidently and independently in everyday activities.

Inclusive design:

*Places people at the heart of the design process.
*Acknowledges diversity and difference.
*Offers choice where a single design solution cannot accommodate all users.
*Provides for flexibility in use.
*Provides buildings and environments that are convenient and enjoyable to use for everyone.

= The Olympic and Paralympic Games precedent =

The Olympic Delivery Authority’s (ODA) delivery of the venues and infrastructure required to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games has set an important precedent in terms of exceeding legal minimum access requirements and incorporating best practice inclusive design. London’s winning bid to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games set out a commitment to delivering ‘the most accessible Games ever’.

As part of this the ODA developed the [http://learninglegacy.london2012.com/publications/inclusive-design-standards.php ODA Inclusive Design Standards] (2008). These are award winning standards which principally apply to the Olympic Park and venues during the 2012 Games, but which cover many issues relevant to the legacy schemes. As such, the parklands, public realm and venues inherited after 2012 have been built to a high standard of inclusive design. The [http://www.londonlegacy.co.uk/community/legacy-communities-scheme/ Legacy Community Scheme ]planning application made a continued commitment to the provision of an inclusive environment and the development of inclusive neighbourhoods.

= '''The National Planning Policy Framework''' =

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets out the government’s planning policies for England and how these are expected to be applied. A large number of Planning Policy Statements and Planning Policy Guidance have been replaced by the framework (although unless specifically revoked by the framework, existing policies remain effective).

Good design is a key aspect of sustainable development. It is indivisible from good planning and should contribute positively to making places better for people. The NPPF highlights that it is important to plan positively for the achievement of high quality and inclusive design for all development, including individual buildings, public and private spaces and wider area development schemes.

The NPPF notes that although visual appearance and the architecture of individual buildings are very important factors, securing high quality and inclusive design goes beyond aesthetic considerations. Therefore, planning policies and decisions should address the connections between people and places and the integration of new development into the natural, built and historic environment.

This article was written by --[[User:Buro Happold|Buro]][[User:Buro Happold|Happold]] 08:36, 12 August 2012 (BST)

= See also =

*Inclusive design.
*[http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/londonplan The London Plan].
*Supplementary planning guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/vision/supplementary-planning-guidance Accessible London]
*[http://www.lifetimehomes.org.uk/ The Lifetime Homes]
*[http://www.london.gov.uk/publication/olympic-legacy-supplementary-planning-guidance Supplementary Planning Guidance in relation to the Olympic Legacy]
*Supplementary Planning Guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/vision/supplementary-planning-guidance Planning for Equality and Diversity in London] (2007)
*Supplementary Planning Guidance: [http://www.london.gov.uk/thelondonplan/guides/spg/spg_01.jsp Achieving an Inclusive Environment](2004)
*[http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents The Equality Act 2010]
*[http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/ Part M of Building Regulations]
*[http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partm/approved Approved Document M]
*[http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110118095356/http:/www.cabe.org.uk/files/the-principles-of-inclusive-design.pdf The Principles of Inclusive Design]
*[http://learninglegacy.london2012.com/publications/inclusive-design-standards.php ODA Inclusive Design Standards] (2008)
*The [http://www.londonlegacy.co.uk/community/legacy-communities-scheme/ Legacy Community ][http://www.londonlegacy.co.uk/community/legacy-communities-scheme/ Scheme]planning application
*The National Planning Policy Framework

<br/>

[[Category:Design]]
[[Category:Other_legislation]]

User:Buro Happold Inclusive Design

2012-10-08T16:34:39Z

Buro Happold Inclusive Design: Protected "User:Buro Happold Inclusive Design" ([edit=author] (indefinite))

<div id="c6211"><div class="introduction"><div class="content"><div id="c6236">
Inclusive design at BuroHappold goes well beyond simply satisfying the requirements of government legislation. It’s about understanding people; their needs, concerns, and what they really want from a building engaging the more social aspects of the built environment that others overlook.
</div></div></div></div><div id="c4885"><div class="csc-header csc-header-n3">
== What’s the point of a building if you can’t use it? ==
</div>
We are passionate advocates of making design of all scales more inclusive to bring it to the fore, ensuring that designers remember that buildings and the built environment are, before anything else, for people. Our work ensures that the built environment is not just easy, comfortable and operable, but that it doesn’t include barriers that really don’t need to exist.<br/><br/>The idea of inclusive design lets us get involved in some very interesting design problems. It can demand a high level of creativity in addition to engineering prowess, something that shows through in the projects we’ve worked on. Whether it’s helping to design interactive displays for children at the Massar Children’s Discovery Centre, or consulting on policy for large scale masterplans, it’s work that we do across all our sectors.<br/><br/>We're all about socially sustainable design – design that doesn’t preclude people from the built environment.

Further information can be obtained from: [http://www.burohappold.com/buildings/planning-operations/inclusive-design/ http://www.burohappold.com/buildings/planning-operations/inclusive-design/]
</div>

User:Buro Happold Inclusive Design

2012-10-08T16:34:21Z

Buro Happold Inclusive Design:

User:Buro Happold Inclusive Design

2012-10-08T16:22:35Z

Buro Happold Inclusive Design: Created page with "<div id="c6211"><div class="introduction"><div class="content"><div id="c6236"> Inclusive design at BuroHappold goes well beyond simply satisfying the requirements of government ..."

<div id="c6211"><div class="introduction"><div class="content"><div id="c6236">
Inclusive design at BuroHappold goes well beyond simply satisfying the requirements of government legislation. It’s about understanding people; their needs, concerns, and what they really want from a building engaging the more social aspects of the built environment that others overlook.
</div></div></div></div><div id="c4885"><div class="csc-header csc-header-n3">
== What’s the point of a building if you can’t use it?. ==
</div>
We are passionate advocates of making design of all scales more inclusive to bring it to the fore, ensuring that designers remember that buildings and the built environment are, before anything else, for people. Our work ensures that the built environment is not just easy, comfortable and operable, but that it doesn’t include barriers that really don’t need to exist.<br/><br/>The idea of inclusive design lets us get involved in some very interesting design problems. It can demand a high level of creativity in addition to engineering prowess, something that shows through in the projects we’ve worked on. Whether it’s helping to design interactive displays for children at the Massar Children’s Discovery Centre, or consulting on policy for large scale masterplans, it’s work that we do across all our sectors.<br/><br/>We're all about socially sustainable design – design that doesn’t preclude people from the built environment.

Further information can be obtained from: [http://www.burohappold.com/buildings/planning-operations/inclusive-design/ http://www.burohappold.com/buildings/planning-operations/inclusive-design/]<br/>
</div>