Title

Inclusive Mobility: a guide to best practice on access to pedestrian and transport infrastructure

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

2002

Subject Area

Infrastructure - Facilities, Infrastructure - Kerb ramp, Mobility - Disabled, Mobility - Wheelchair

Abstract

The British Government is committed to comprehensive civil rights for disabled people. An integrated transport policy, which encompasses accessible public transport, public transport infrastructure and a barrier-free pedestrian environment is fundamentally important to delivering that commitment. Part III of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) gives disabled people a "right of access" to goods, facilities, services and premises. These rights are being phased in over the period 1996 to 2004. Since 1996, it has been unlawful for service providers to treat disabled people less favourably than other people for a reason related to their disability. There is already a range of advice, guidance and codes of practice drawn up to guide highway engineers and others in local authorities and the transport industries on the best ways to meet the needs of disabled people. However, the introduction of legislation in this field requires a fresh look at what guidance already exists, whether it is up-to-date, consistent and comprehensive and whether there are overlaps and omissions. Although the main purpose of these guidelines is to provide good access for disabled people, designs that satisfy their requirements also meet the needs of many other people. Those who are travelling with small children or are carrying luggage or heavy shopping will all benefit from an accessible environment, as will people with temporary mobility problems (e.g. a leg in plaster) and many older people. Thus, the overall objective of this guide is to provide inclusive design and through that achieve social inclusion.