Direct Access bringing access and inclusion to Canterbury

However, to ensure CCC go beyond Government legislation to meet best practice standards of access, the Direct Access team were recommissioned to undertake site revisitations. The new recommended improvements from these visits consider international accessibility guidelines, as well as the individual testimony of Direct Access’ auditing team, the majority of whom are classed as disabled people themselves. 

The Levelling Up Fund is designed to invest in infrastructure that improves everyday life across the UK. The £4.8 billion fund supports town centre and high street regeneration, local transport projects, and cultural and heritage assets. As such, DA have considered the impact of these goals on accessibility, ensuring that there are no instances of direct or indirect discrimination to disabled people because of their disability in the delivery of the regeneration project.  

The scope of Direct Access’ review identifies different ways that CCC can seek to improve in areas such as interpretation and signage, wayfinding, ramped access, walking routes, seating and benches, car parks and Blue Badge policies, spatial lighting, entrances, and sensory planting, which would provide a more attractive and interactive green space. Some of the recommendations have also suggested the incorporation of QR code technology. 

Direct Access Operations Director Peter Brassington says of the contract; “Direct Access are relishing the opportunity to work with Canterbury County Council on this project. We have been really encouraged and impressed by the knowledge, experience and appetite for accessibility and inclusive design. We hope that our team’s expertise and lived experience as disabled people will ensure that their spaces become and remain accessible for people of all abilities far into the future”.  

Direct Access’ Senior Access Consultant Tom Morgan comments “For us, this is a great opportunity to improve public infrastructure and iconic attractions in Canterbury, and to create environments that are more inclusive for everybody, including disabled people. CCC have been incredibly receptive and engaged with our feedback since we began work on the project back in 2022 and have only continued to impress us with their championing of accessibility and inclusion”.