Access

The design of the Senedd is that it should be exemplar in terms of accessibility for all.

This was achieved in terms of all public areas with the assistance of an Access Advisory Group that was established, consisting of representatives of disability interest groups from across Wales, the contractor Taylor Woodrow and RRP.

There were numerous competing priorities between accessibility and broadcasting requirements which have meant that the level of access achieved within the chamber is 70%. This includes access to the Cabinet row.

The design of this building has been described as exemplar in the media. The following enhancements have been included in the design to ensure the building meets its target of being exemplar in terms of accessibility in the public areas:

• Additional lift installed at front of the building for public access to the entrance;
• Enlarged public lift within the building;
• Installation of fire evacuation lifts at the rear of the building;
• Installation of a "Mega-loo" including a fixed hoist and adult changing facilities;
• Provision of a parent and child room;
• Hearing induction loops installed throughout the building;
• Fully accessible reception desk in terms of staff and visitors;
• Provision for 3 spaces for people in wheelchairs in the committee room galleries with an additional 2 if required;
• Provision for 9 dedicated spaces for people in wheelchairs in the debating chamber gallery and seating can be removed for additional spaces if required;
• 12 parking bays are provided alongside the Assembly Building for people with disabilities;
• Covered walkways from the parking bays for people with disabilities to the lifts at the front of the building;
• Signage in Welsh, English and both forms of Braille;
• Provision of tactile markers to the exterior plinths; and
• Operational plans for the utilisation of the building;