16.2.1.3 Inclusive Design

Inclusive Design

An inclusive environment is one which values diversity and difference and encompasses the needs of a wide range of user groups, as well as being sufficiently flexible and versatile to be able to adapt to diverse and changing needs and life circumstances.

Inclusive design, therefore, requires all proposals, whether they relate to new buildings, public realm works, changes of use or alterations to existing buildings, to consider the needs of the widest possible range of different user groups from project outset and in particular to consider the needs of vulnerable groups such as the elderly and disabled. Within new buildings and spaces, this will include consideration of such issues as provision of level circulation, lifts, doors widths and detail, surface finishes, signs and information. The needs of occupants of different ages and stages of life should also be considered, ensuring scale, form, construction and internal arrangement of the building will enable future adaptability.

The historic environment poses particular challenges for fully delivering all-inclusive access, however, there will almost always be scope to improve access for all without compromising the character of an existing structure of special interest – detailed advice is provided in the Architectural Heritage Protection Guidelines for Planning Authorities re-issued by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (DAHG) in 2011. Access to the environment in this context may not just be about physical access, but should also consider the ways in which services and information can be provided to meet the needs of all users.