In this section Universal Design, and the Building Regulations (Part M) which is the key policy governing access to the built environment for disabled people in Ireland are outlined.
There are various methods, concepts and policies associated with affording equality of access to disabled people. These include
- Universal Design
- Lifetime Homes
- Visitable Housing
- Assistive Technology (including Environmental Controls)
South Dublin County Council follow best practise design. We use the guidance from the National Disability Authority. https://universaldesign.ie/built-environment/building-for-everyone. The section most relevant to our Public Realm is external environments.
Did you know that you may need a certificate of compliance with respect to requirements under Part M of the Building Regulations (Disability Access Certificate), if you are planning a new build, extension or significant renovation? To find out more, and to check if your planned works require a Disability Access Certificate click here
We are strongly committed to universal access. In recognition of this ongoing commitment we were awarded the status of 02 Ability Company by Kanchi in 2010. Our main county town Tallaght received a Special Mention for the accessibility of our Public Facilities and Services in the European Union Access City Awards in 2013. South Dublin County was also awarded the special mention award for landscape and playground areas in the 2024 Awards.
At the 2013 Access City Awards: Vice-President of the European Commission Viviane Reding, EU Justice Commissioner (in green jacket) and Vice-President of the European Disability Forum Erzsebet Foldesi with Deputy Mayor Cllr Guss O’Connell and representatives from Pamplona, Gdynia and Bilbao (also recipients of Special Mentions)
South Dublin County was represented at the 2024 event by the Mayor of South Dublin Cllr. Alan Edge, Cllr. Vicki Casserly and Laurence Colleran, Senior Executive Parks Superintendent at South Dublin County Council.
To view our winning entry for 2024 please click here
