Access to public buildings for all is a key
equality right, the design of the built environment should
anticipate, and overcome, restrictions that prevent disabled people
making full use of premises and their surroundings.
An accessible environment is one which a disabled
person can enter and make use of independently or with help from a
partner or assistant, including being able to escape in the event
of fire or other emergency.
Some facilities can be designed in such a way as to
incorporate access for disabled people. In other situations,
additional features such as grab rails, touch-legible signs and
hearing enhancement systems might be needed.
Public Realm design covers a wide range of needs and
the use of the built environment by disabled people who can be
residents, visitors, spectators, customers, employees, holders of
public office, or participants in sports events, performances and
conferences.
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