The National Disability Authority (NDA) launch Code of Practice on Accessible Heritage Sites
Section 29 of the Disability Act 2005 came into force back on the 31st December 2007 and places a statutory obligation on the head of a public body to ensure that, as far as practicable, the whole or a part of a heritage site in its ownership, management or control and to which the public has access, is accessible to people with disabilities and can be visited by them with ease and dignity. This obligation does not apply if it has a significant adverse effect on the conservation status of a species or habitat or the integrity of a heritage site or if it would compromise the characteristics of the heritage site.
The NDA recently launched (December 2011) a Code of Practice entitled “Code of Practice on Accessible Heritage Sites”. The Code is designed to guide public bodies in meeting their statutory obligations under Section 29 of the Disability Act 2005.
The Code provides practical advice and examples on how to make heritage sites accessible and covers areas such as Planning for accessibility; Pre-visit information; Approach and entry; Wayfinding; External landscape; Circulation within buildings; Interpretative information available on site; Programmes, meetings and events; Facilities and Emergency egress.
For further information on the new code of practice click here. Alternatively, if you would like further information or need further assistance in relation to making heritage sites accessible please do not hesitate to contact one of our team on 01-4151285 or e-mail [email protected].
