Hi
As per last message, also working on our response to the planning
consultation. We have been concerned about the proposals to integrate the
access and design statement as it makes it more difficult to use it within
the DRC framework, which, although unwieldy and flawed, is a useful concept.
I think we are going to recommend an introductory part which would include
the general access strategy and approach, commitment to access, references
to legislation, who will be consulted and how (outcomes would come within
the detailed design and access statement), which standards will be used
(eg. best practice standards, specialist standards etc), how operational
and management procedures, training & other issues will be dealt with (if
end user/occupier is known).
Any comments?
We also have concerns about the confusion over enforcement and decision
making, the role of the local development framework, especially in relation
to local best practice guidelines which we have in Manchester and the lack
of clarity over the implications of the DDA in planning decisions. It also
doesn't take into account the proposed inclusion of dwellings into the
Building Regs in the near future. Similarly there are issues in the LDO
section.
We will also be sending comments about the proposed access statement
guidelines.
In the meantime, am sending the list a revised version of a flowchart which
I developed for Trafford and is still in draft format but will eventually
go on their website. It was agreed by architects and others we consulted
that they preferred a linear diagram, unlike the DRC version.
If I don't respond to any replies immediately, please forgive me as work is
a bit hectic at the moment!
Best wishes
Flick
Chair, MDPAG (Manchester Disabled People's Access Group)
Office: [log in to unmask]
Website: http://www.mdpag.org.uk
Personal: [log in to unmask]
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