§ Mr. WigginTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what action the Government are taking to facilitate the provision of accessible WCs for people with disabilities visiting historic buildings. [21003]
§ Dr. HowellsThe Disability Discrimination Act 1995 was introduced to ensure that people with disabilities are offered the same services and facilities as everyone else. Planning Policy Guidance Note; planning and the historic environment (PPG15) states that it is important that people with disabilities should have dignified easy access to and within historic buildings. This includes the provision of suitable WCs.
English Heritage is the Government's statutory advisor on all matters concerning the historic environment in England, as well as being responsible for 409 historic properties and sites which are visited by over 11 million people each year. It is currently undertaking a programme of access audits, to be followed by works to increase physical access. The programme covers all 409 sites and will make all reasonable physical adjustments, including the provision of accessible WCs where appropriate. It will be implemented according to the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. English Heritage also provides guidance to others who own or manage historic buildings and other heritage properties on how to improve accessibility.
English Heritage, as well as the National Trust and other bodies, also produce special publications with information for visitors with disabilities and also include this in their general guides.