Townson Disability Consultancy (TDC) promotes inclusive design from first principles with the understanding that disability is a function of a disabling environment rather than of the individual.

TDC can advise planners, architects, building surveyors and engineers on all matters relating to access, by reviewing plans for new developments and proposed improvements to existing buildings. This includes design advice, site visits to monitor progress and final checks on buildings nearing completion.

We can provide cost effective practical solutions and undertake implementation works.

Advice is provided on a wide range of building types including sports and leisure complexes, shopping centres, arts centres, hospitals, schools and universities.

Access Statements

Access Statements are now required to support planning applications at the time plans are deposited, when a building notice is supplied or when details of a project are given to an approved inspector. They include; the philosophy and approach to inclusive design; the key issues of a particular scheme and the sources of advice and guidance used. This can assist dialogue between the applicant, planners and building control officers. TDC consultants have backgrounds in planning, architecture, building surveying, access, and project management.

Inclusive Design Best Practice

There are many sources of advice available, both enshrined in legislation and from specialist research establishments. We can provide detailed advice on the latest requirements of Part M of the Building Regulations and British Standard BS 8300, concerning access to buildings for disabled people, and BS5588 Part 8, covering emergency egress from buildings.