<p><span>New homes will need to include step-free access to all entrance level rooms and other mobility-friendly features following an outcome to a government consultation on accessibility standards.</span></p> <p><span>The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has opted to raise the minimum accessibility standard for new homes in England to give residents “the dignity and security they deserve in their homes”. <a href="http://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/raising-accessibility-standards-for-new-homes">Consultation</a> participants also had the options of remaining with the existing framework for accessible housing or reconsidering the way existing standards are applied.</span></p> <p><span>Presently, new homes are required to meet the basic standard for accessibility, named “Category 1”. This includes four main requirements to make homes accessible and “visitable” for most people, including wheelchair users. Examples comprise level access to the main entrance and sufficiently wide doorways and circulation space.</span></p> <p><span>The raising of requirements means that Category 1 will apply only in exceptional circumstances. Sites vulnerable to flooding and new build flats above garages may be exempt, due to the practicalities of offering step free access.</span></p> <p><span>DLUHC said that out of more than 400 consultation responses, 98% had supported the proposal to raise new homes’ accessibility standards. </span></p> <p><span>A second consultation will follow in “due course”, covering the …