The Access Strategy

Improving access in historic buildings demands careful planning. Develop an access strategy to determine the options available and establish which is most suitable. The objective is to enable all users to access the building and services in the same way and independently. The access solution(s) should reflect this, while preserving the buildings original features. There are three main steps to creating an effective access strategy.

Conservation Assessment

Alterations will be sensitive to what makes a historic building special. Distinctive physical features, layout, style, materials and method of construction used, or association with particular personalities and events, can all help determine the historic value. Significance may also lie in the hidden archaeological remains that survive below ground.

It is critical to define and understand this significance, to establish what to protect from change. Damage to original materials and fabrics should be minimised and alterations made reversible. Identify less important elements, as altering these may not be detrimental to the significance of the building. Compile a conservation assessment from this information.

Access Audit

The next stage is to evaluate the building’s accessibility, by means of an assessment or building survey. This should identify all barriers and issues to be resolved. Do not prepare proposals to improve access until the audit has taken place. The audit should follow the total path of travel by all visitors, from arrival, to entry into the building and access to each of the services it provides, to departure from the building.

The audit should take into account transportation methods, parking access, circulation within and around the site, adequacy of toilets and other facilities and access to other levels. It should also consider physical factors, such as gradients, weights of doors and surface textures. Someone experienced in assessing access should carry out the audit. Many access equipment suppliers offer professional advice and assistance as part of the service.

Access Plan

An access plan is the final part of the access strategy. This reconciles the needs of access against conservation, and identifies possible solutions.

Each historic building is unique, so standardised access solutions are not usually appropriate. The access solution should depend on the purpose of the building and its anticipated users. For example, an office may be used chiefly for administration, while a church or museum must be accessible to staff and visitors.

There is usually more than one solution to a problem, so evaluate all the options. Consider the impact of each on the building before making a decision. The solution should be sympathetic, non-invasive and compatible with the original environment. Consider the practicality and cost implications of the project.

Access solutions must not reduce architectural or historic interest. Local authorities must approve any proposed alterations before work begins and monument consent obtained if the building is a scheduled ancient monument.