Dear Tony
Due to the large number of people on this list it will create too many e-mails if everyone has to explain who they are. The purpose of the list is to share views, ideas and knowledge on areas of accessibility in the built/external environment on the basis that those that contribute do so because their share an interest in this area. The wide range of expertise amongst those contributing to the list makes it a valuable resource. We look forward to contributions from all members of the list.
Regards
Marcus
________________________________
From: Accessibuilt list on behalf of Tony Minihan
Sent: Tue 4/3/2007 4:14 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [ACCESSIBUILT] My own thoughts on access in hotels
who you are?
i am [log in to unmask]
thanks
----- Original Message -----
From: Jane Simpson <mailto:[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask]
Sent: Tuesday, April 03, 2007 3:01 PM
Subject: Re: My own thoughts on access in hotels
Whilst it might not require an access statement for a change of use, any material change to the character of a listed building will require a full application. If this has been a query re planning approval requirements for change of use, it doesn't mean that you can't comment at a suitable time. Developers often need to find out if the principle is appropriate before they spend time and money on developing the scheme and costings or indeed purchasing the property.
Turning it into a hotel is bound to warrant changes and therefore an access statement which should explain their reasoning's for all access requirements at the full application stage. It will also require building regulation approval which will require one.
Ask your local authority how they are implementing their duties under the Disability Equality Duty, in particular around planning. They should have issued a Disability Equality Scheme by last November (many haven't). A lot of L.A's advise now in reply letters of the obligations under the DDA to highlight the issues even if they can't request an access statement. Do you have an access officer at your L.A?
I suggest you point out the commercial considerations, to the owner/developer I wouldn't stay in a hotel without a lift and have to carry heavy bags up 3 flights, nor run the risk of staff carrying them.
Regards Jane
Jane Simpson BA Grad Dip Arch RIBA
Regional Manager
For and on behalf of
Aedas Access Consultancy
Norwich Union House
High Street
Huddersfield
HD1 2LF
T: +44 (01484) 537411
M: +44 07813 301683
F: +44 (01484) 530332
E: [log in to unmask]
W: www.aedas.com <http://www.aedas.com/>
________________________________
From: Accessibuilt list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Liz East
Sent: 03 April 2007 14:42
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: My own thoughts on access in hotels
Hi Helen
Interested to read your guidance on Hotels! I am posting 'for all' a situation I have come across which I find totally intolerable! A Conference Centre in a Listed Building which is now being turned into a Hotel. As it was once a Nursing home, it is not 'changing use' and not 'new build'. It has been recommended that there is NO NEED FOR EVEN ONE LIFT to cover the 60 bedrooms over 3 floors (I know we need exercise but even so!!). In relation to people with impairements: disabled rooms are being accommodated on 1st floor!!!How does a wheelchair get there - a stairlift!!! I would value your comments/suggestions of where I can find out official guidance on this? Many thanks. Happy Easter! Liz East 'Accessability Lincoln'
----- Original Message -----
From: "Helen Bryant" <[log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]> >
To: <[log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]> >
Sent: Tuesday, December 19, 2006 5:47 PM
Subject: [ACCESSIBUILT] My own thoughts on access in hotels
This is a short list of my own thoughts. I haven't gone into much detail,
such as dimensions, it's just to give a general idea.
Some people rely on built in hoists, because of the degree of severity of
their disability - and lack of balance/sensation, etc, and do not feel safe
using portable ones.
There must be adequate lighting in the rooms and the corridors. Many
hotels seem to like "dim religious light" but this is dangerous for people
whose sight is reliant on lots of light.
There must also be sufficient contrast in the décor. Some hotels have
everything in rooms in co-ordinating colours, but if they are all very
similar colours it is difficult to differentiate between the bed and the
walls, and the door and the walls. Natural light is the best light.
Also there should be contrasting colours on the edges of any steps, and
other areas where there is potential for accidents; i.e., by the swimming
pool. Steps should NOT be curved, as this is very disconcerting for people
with visual impairments.
Some carpets are very difficult for wheelchair users and people using
crutches, etc, to negotiate. This is especially true on slopes. There is
nothing worse than having to fight against the pile of the carpet (and
being pulled in the wrong direction) when you are already struggling to get
up the slope.
There should be a low serving area at the bar(s) and reception.
Doors should be easy to open wherever possible.
The system to actually get into your hotel room should be as simple as
possible. Not everyone can use keys, etc. Swipe cards (or even proximity
readers) would be a possible answer.
Lifts should be as big as possible. They should not be dark, there should
be announcements telling you where you are (some lifts feel like you are
barely moving) and also a visual signal for deaf people. The controls
should be low down so that everyone can reach them.
There should be induction loops wherever possible, especially at receptions
and in any conference facilities, and there should be a visual (or other)
system to warn of fire or other emergencies. Proper safety procedures
should be put in place for the evacuation of disabled people.
All signs - particularly those pertaining to safety instructions - should
be easy to read for people with visual impairments. This means high
contrast, clear, large fonts and, possibly, the use of Braille on low
signs. These days ALL safety notices MUST have pictorial elements, too.
As many signs as possible should also include pictures. Not everyone is
able to read or understand words immediately.
There should be dropped kerbs and easy parking outside the hotel.
Facilities should be made available for Guide Dogs/Assisting Dogs; these
facilities must be kept clean so as not to compromise the health of other
guests.
There should be NO areas to which people with disabilities cannot get. It
is discrimination to expect disabled people to pay for facilities that they
are not enjoying - for example; a riverside view or access to the river.
Any leisure facilities must also be accessible - gym, swimming pool, etc.
Tables in the restaurant (or at least some) should be easy for people using
wheelchairs to get underneath - central legs are a nuisance.
Baby changing facilities (if provided) should be kept entirely separate
from toilet facilities for disabled people.
There should be a choice between showers and baths in adapted en suite
bathrooms.
It should be perfectly easy for persons with (some) disabilities to work at
the hotel.
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