Should Part M lead to more inclusive designs?: built environment professionals' perspective

An inclusive built environment design should reflect the fact that most people experience changes in the level of abilities during the different stages in life. The design should facilitate greater participation and inclusion of people of all ages and abilities by providing accessible and usable environments. Unfortunately, it is observed that some built environments pose challenges with regards to accessibility and usability for people with a range of impairment. The current Part M of the Building Regulations and the associated Approved Document underline basic minimum statutory requirement and suggest reasonable provision to ensure buildings are accessible and useable. An e-survey carried out on 104 construction professionals such as building control officers, planners and building surveyors revealed a greater need for engagement of built environment professionals to understand the inclusive design perspective. This is because compliance with Part M of Building Regulations does not necessarily cater to the needs of users with all types of impairment