Access for Disabled

Bury Council is firmly committed to the principle of ensuring that the built environment is accessible to everyone. This is an issue that affects and involves us all, not only people with a disability but the elderly, those suffering from temporary impairments such as broken limbs, or having to push prams or carry heavy shopping. In fact, most of us at some time in our lives will experience the problems of restricted mobility. The principle of access and facilities for disabled people, is supported by various legislative requirements including the Building Regulations. The Building Control Service is the focal point of all access matters relating to the Built Environment in the Borough.

Many barriers to the built environment could be avoided altogether simply by thinking ahead at the design stage. If you are involved in a scheme where access issues are relevant, early consultation is strongly recommended. Don't be guilty of adding to the already high number of difficult to use and 'no go' buildings.  Always think in terms of 'Access For All'.

Need help with interpreting the regulations? 

The Greater Manchester District Surveyors Association has put together a document 'Accessibility by design in Greater Manchester' to help with interpreting Part M of the Building Regulations 2004.  The document includes useful and detailed information, along with useful contacts, on the following:

• access to buildings;
• access within buildings;
• facilities in buildings other than dwellings;
• dwellings;
• designer's checklist;

The Disability Discrimination Act

From October 2004 the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) places a legal duty on all those who provide services to the public to make reasonable adjustments to the physical environment of their premises to ensure that disabled people can access their goods, services and facilities.  More information is available from the Human Rights Commission web site.

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