Belfast·SPG003 Residential Design·Page 104·5.3.29

Private amenity space access and gradients for wheelchair users

Wheelchair users and those with limited mobility must have step-free, level or gently sloping access to private amenity spaces such as gardens, balconies, and roof terraces, with maximum gradients of 1 in 20 and crossfalls not exceeding 1 in 40.

It is important that wheelchair users and others with limited mobility have easy access to private amenity space and can use every aspect of it safely and comfortably. Therefore, it is necessary that such persons on exiting the dwelling can approach and gain step-free access to the outdoor space and other such spaces intended for the use of the occupants, be it a garden, balcony or roof terrace. These spaces should benefit from a level or gently sloping approach to reduce the likelihood of slippage. Where gradients are unavoidable, these should have a slope not greater than 1 in 20 (with crossfalls not exceeding 1 in 40) to reduce the likelihood of slippage.

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