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

17. HfVN Part 1 Section 19: External facilities

This chapter presents the analysis of responses to Question 38.

Question 38. How do you feel about the proposals for the rest of the clauses within Section 19 of Part 1 of the current guide?

Nearly half (45%) of the respondents who answered Question 38 agreed with all the proposals for the rest of the clauses within Section 19 of Part 1 of the current guide (as set out in Annex S of the consultation paper), 32% agreed with some but not all, 3% disagreed with all and 19% neither agreed nor disagreed. Individuals (85%) were more likely than organisations (38%) to agree with all the proposals.

Calls for more information and clarification

Nearly two-fifths of all respondents gave open comments at Question 38. Some called for more information and clarification about the proposals. For example, information about the maximum dimensions of balconies, the recommended size of gardens, and the minimum size of paved or slabbed areas within gardens and surrounding refuse bins.

Specific proposals that respondents agreed or disagreed with

Some respondents voiced their support for specific proposals, most notably the provision of outdoor space for residents. Some commented on the benefits of accessing outdoor space, including for health and wellbeing.

“A well-designed outdoor space has health benefits and can be enjoyed by people with a range of health needs as well as their families.” – Organisation

“Agreed, all new homes should have a private or shared garden to allow people access to secure outdoor space. If this is not possible, there should be a private balcony to allow people to sit outside.” - Organisation

A few respondents identified proposals they disagreed with or felt should be revised. For example, one commented about raised planting areas and another about soil bedding depth in clause 19.2.2. However, these aspects are not referred to in the proposed updated clause in the main body of the consultation paper. One suggested the provision of either a height adjustable rotary clothes drier or a winch operated drying line (clause 19.3.2) should be ‘as standard’ in all dwellings, not just dwellings specifically for wheelchair users.

Other themes

Some identified the potential cost of the proposals as a drawback, while others described technical challenges. For example, a few identified the maintenance requirements related to gardens and balconies, and two raised concerns about the safety of balconies.

Some felt that proposals should not be implemented ‘as standard’. In particular, some commented that while a garden space may be desirable, it is not possible for all dwellings.

Other considerations raised by some included ensuring outdoor spaces are secure and accessible, and considering Juliette balconies as an alternative to a larger private balcony.