Access statements and alternative design solutions

Access statements are not a requirement of the Building Regulations. Applicants may wish to satisfy the requirements of Part R by adopting the guidance and provisions of Technical Booklet R. However, they could choose to follow the performance criteria given in paragraph 0.1 and offer alternative design solutions they believe comply with the reasonable provision requirements of the relevant regulation. Evidence to support such an alternative design approach might include – (a) application of the recommendations in BS 8300 where these differ from the provisions, or are not covered, in this Technical Booklet; (b) results of current validated research; (c) outcome of consultations with other parties (e.g. Northern Ireland Environment Agency, Access Officers, local Access Groups, etc.); and (d) convincing arguments that an alternative solution will achieve the same, a better, or a more convenient outcome. An access statement setting out the rationale for the access strategy, could be useful in presenting the evidence of the design approach adopted.