Stirling Observer

Student flats access call

- KAIYA MARJORIBAN­KS

Disability campaigner­s say revised plans for student accommodat­ion at a derelict city centre pub building don’t go far enough.

As reported by the Observer earlier this month, Stirling Area Access Panel concerns about an initial planning applicatio­n for 27 student flats at the former Arches bar at 35 Upper Craigs had sparked Homesmatch to withdraw it and submit a new proposal.

Panel chair Robert Dick had told the developer’s agent Iceni Projects Ltd that, while the redevelopm­ent of the vacant building was welcome, panel members were surprised that disabled students were not catered for.

The developer’s new proposal features two “fully accessible” studio apartments as part of a 26flat developmen­t.

However, this week the access panel contacted the developer suggesting the new plans don’t go far enough.

Mr Dick wrote that, while panel members were pleased by the inclusion of the two accessible rooms, they were surprised there seemed to be no considerat­ion for making one of the two planned entrances accessible.

He added: “An entrance should ideally be flat and level, with an 800 millimetre clear door opening.

“Another point of concern is that the basement, which is the social hub of the building, is also not accessible to disabled people. Overall, what has been created is a non-inclusive building whose services still doesn’t comply with the Equality Act 2010 as physical barriers of steps or stairs have not been removed, or a reasonable adjustment created to give wheelchair users access.

“A simple internal platform lift from the ground floor to the basement would be a possible solution.

There is a single (gents?) toilet opposite reception, but it would also have been sensible to include in the basement layout, a unisex accessible, general public toilet.”

Mr Dick said it was “frustratin­g” given the issues could have been resolved if Homesmatch had met with the panel before submitting the second applicatio­n.

He added: “Stating that the developmen­t is car free, is very aspiration­al – we do hope that it is the case – but is unlikely if there are disabled students who will have to use the closest disabled bays in the area. We would advise Homesmatch to consider checking all dropped kerb pedestrian crossing points within 45 metres of the main entrance to ensure that the lower lip does not exceed 6 millimetre­s.

“Without doubt, the refurbishm­ent of this facility would significan­tly enhance the option of high quality accommodat­ion for students in the city, and also improve the street design of Upper Craigs.

“However, as the project stands, we would urge Stirling Council planning to reject this applicatio­n until the above issues have been properly investigat­ed and addressed by Homesmatch.”

 ??  ?? Making point Disability campaigner­s have raised concerns about plans to convert former pub in Upper Craigs
Making point Disability campaigner­s have raised concerns about plans to convert former pub in Upper Craigs

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