New homes - enhancing accessibility, adaptability and usability: consultation analysis

10. HfVN Part 1 Section 12: Storage

This chapter presents the analysis of Question 22.

Question 22. How do you feel about the proposals for Section 12 of Part 1 of the current guide?

Among respondents who answered this question, 55% agreed with all the proposals for Section 12 of Part 1 of the current guide (as set out in Annex L of the consultation paper), 24% agreed with some but not all, 7% disagreed with all and 14% neither agreed nor disagreed. Individuals were slightly more likely to agree with all the proposals than organisations (62% compared to 54% respectively).

Potential advantages

Nearly two-fifths of all respondents provided open responses to Question 22. Providing increased storage space was identified by some respondents as a benefit of the proposals, particularly for individuals who have bulky medical or mobility equipment. A small number argued that the proposals should go further and include provision for greater storage space.

“Having space within a property with storage is essential for service users with a disability as they often have bulky items that they do not want left out at all times.” – Organisation

Calls for more information and clarification

Several respondents requested more information including, for example, more guidance on the minimum storage space required.

“12.1.1. The existing and proposed guidance is exceptionally vague and could be interpreted completely differently from one designer to another. We suggest that there is a need for specific volumes/areas to be prescribed.” - Organisation

Specific proposals that respondents agreed or disagreed with

Specific proposals that they disagreed with were highlighted by a small number. Two commented on 12.1.1: one argued the storage space should increase in line with the size of the dwelling, and the other suggested the general needs storage area should be smaller than proposed because most prams are foldable. Regarding 12.2.2, one felt that electrical meters should be allowed on the rear wall to allow for smaller electrical cupboards. Conversely, one agreed with the principle of 12.2.2 that electrical meters should be easily accessible.

Other themes

Some respondents noted that the proposals would increase the size of dwellings, but it was unclear if these respondents felt this was a positive or negative impact of the proposals. A few respondents commented on the perceived cost implications of the proposals and a small number argued they should not be required ‘as standard’.

Some respondents called for storage requirements to be aligned with other existing standards such as the Nationally Described Space Standards and the Glasgow Standard.