At UNEK, our team of highly qualified Access Consultants brings extensive experience and technical expertise in inclusive design, enabling us to support architects, developers, and planners in preparing Access Statements that meet regulatory requirements while promoting accessible, user-friendly environments.
Our consultants are members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), and the Access Association, ensuring that our advice is fully aligned with best practice, up-to-date legislation, and practical realities on site.
What is an Access Statement?
An Access Statement—also known as a Disability Access Statement, DDA Statement, or Disabled Access Statement—is a formal document that explains how accessibility has been considered and integrated into the design of a new development or refurbishment. The statement outlines the design rationale relating to access and inclusion, identifying potential challenges and describing how they have been addressed through careful design decisions. It is best prepared at an early stage of the design process to ensure that inclusive design is embedded from the outset.
Where full compliance with best practice standards (such as BS 8300 or Approved Document M) is not achievable, the statement provides clear reasoning and sets out suitable alternative approaches.
What is a Design and Access Statement?
A Design and Access Statement (DAS) is a document required by Local Authority Planning Departments for most planning applications (excluding basic householder applications). It covers all aspects of a scheme’s design—such as use, layout, scale, and appearance—and must also demonstrate how inclusive access has been considered.
An Access Statement is often provided as part of, or referenced within, a DAS to ensure the accessibility component is addressed thoroughly and professionally.
What’s Included in an Access Statement?
Each Access Statement is tailored to the specific development and planning requirements, but typically includes:
✅ The relevant design standards and accessibility guidance being applied (e.g. Building Regs Part M, BS 8300, Equality Act 2010)
✅ Identification of key access issues and the design solutions adopted
✅ Clear justifications where alternative or non-standard approaches are used
✅ Consideration of management or maintenance practices that may impact long-term accessibility
This document helps demonstrate your commitment to inclusive design while streamlining the planning process and reducing the likelihood of access-related objections.
How We Can Help
At UNEK, we understand both the legislative context and the practical challenges of delivering inclusive environments. Our Access Consultants work collaboratively with your team to ensure your Access Statement is clear, compliant, and aligned with the aspirations of your project.
We also offer follow-up consultations once the Statement has been issued, to answer any queries and support further design or planning responses as needed.
Reach out to us today for expert advice on your next development—or fill out the form below to request a free, no-obligation quote for an Access Statement.
Let’s create spaces that work for everyone, together.