Cuts to Accessibility Targets for New-Build Homes in England Spark Outrage

The UK government's recent proposal to reduce accessibility targets for new-build homes in England has drawn significant criticism from disability advocates. The plan stipulates that a minimum of 40% of new homes will meet the M4(2) accessibility standard, which includes features such as step-free access and wider doorways. However, the proposal does not set a minimum requirement for wheelchair-accessible homes (M4(3)), a decision that campaigners argue undermines the needs of disabled individuals. Previously, the Conservative government had committed to ensuring that all new homes would adhere to the M4(2) standard, a promise that has now been significantly scaled back.

The Guardian

Mikey Erhardt, policy and campaigns officer at Disability Rights UK, described the government's decision as a “monumental reversal” that leaves disabled people feeling “betrayed and excluded.” He emphasized the importance of requiring 100% of new-build homes to meet improved accessibility standards, including a minimum of 10% for wheelchair users. Erhardt criticized the government for its lack of commitment to disability equality, stating that the new proposal raises questions about whose interests are being served.

The Guardian

Millie Brown, deputy director for homes at the Centre for Ageing Better, acknowledged that while the 40% target is a step in the right direction, it still represents a retreat from previous commitments. She expressed hope that local authorities would view the 40% as a baseline to exceed.

The Guardian

The M4(2) standard requires features that facilitate access for individuals with limited mobility, while the M4(3) standard mandates full accessibility for wheelchair users. Local authorities have historically set their own targets; for instance, since 2015, London has aimed for 90% of homes to meet M4(2) and 10% to meet M4(3). However, accessibility rates vary significantly across the country. Research from the Centre for Ageing Better indicates that residents in the East Midlands or north-east England are six times less likely to live in fully accessible homes compared to those in London. Currently, only 13% of homes in England are fully accessible.

The Guardian

Housing Secretary Steve Reed stated that the changes to the planning system are part of a broader initiative to “get Britain building,” asserting that the government is committed to providing homes that meet the needs of the population. Mark Gale, policy manager at the disability charity Sense, expressed disappointment over the reduction in accessibility targets, highlighting that inadequate housing can severely limit independence for disabled individuals with complex needs.

The Guardian

While the government maintains that the new targets will facilitate increased housing development, critics argue that the cuts to accessibility standards will exacerbate existing inequalities in housing for disabled individuals. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has yet to provide a detailed response to the backlash surrounding these proposed changes.

The Guardian

• “This is a monumental reversal of existing policy. We had been awaiting the plans to implement a previous 100% figure and this decision leaves disabled people feeling betrayed and excluded, and questioning the government’s commitment to disability equality,” — Mikey Erhardt, Policy and Campaigns Officer, Disability Rights UK

The Guardian

• “Inaccessible housing can be a huge barrier to independence for disabled people with complex needs.” — Mark Gale, Policy Manager, Sense

The Guardian