DfC consults on built environment for NI Disability Strategy

In December 2025, the Department for Communities published the NI Executive’s draft ten-year Disability Strategy (2025–2035) for public consultation. The Strategy was co-designed with disabled people and aims to remove societal barriers while embedding equality, dignity, choice and control across public policy and services.

It sets out eight strategic outcomes, supported by recommended actions, including the ambition that all people should be able to “access our built environment, facilities and transport on an equal basis”.

The Strategy seeks to guide government action towards the following changes:

Accessible housing

• Invest in housing that meets inclusive design standards.
• Produce guidance on inclusive design to improve housing standards for people with cognitive and sensory impairments.

Inclusive design standards and procurement

• Ensure inclusive design standards are adopted in all new publicly funded spaces and facilities.
• Apply inclusive design standards (BS8300) in government procurement policies.
• Ensure future projects on Northern Ireland Civil Service Estates comply with new building regulations for Changing Places Toilets.

Public realm and streetscape

• Explore options to make the public realm more welcoming and accessible for everyone.
• Introduce an accessibility rating system for businesses, similar to the Food Hygiene “Scores on the Doors” system.
• Remove physical obstacles in towns and cities; implement a pavement café licensing system that prioritises pedestrians.
• Address issues with advertising boards on pavements and prevent pavement parking.

The deadline for responses to the consultation is 5pm on Friday 20 March 2026.

RSUA is considering a response to this consultation. If you have any questions or comments about the Disability Strategy, please contact Curtis Large, RSUA Policy and Public Affairs Officer, at curtis@rsua.org.uk