3.2 Planning Approach to Minimise Barriers
3.2.1 Universal accessibility approach
Accessibility is the basic requirement of a building, a facility or information. Accessibility of a building and facility involves not only movement within the building but also movement from the street or parking area through the property and building entrance.

Universal accessibility is not planning a separate approach for the elderly, the wheelchair users or the visually impaired. The solution is derived from understanding the needs of people and applying inclusive design to achieve a common access. It should also facilitate users to access building independently. It is a positive design approach to cater for the widest spectrum of users. No user groups should be left to enter via the back door, the goods lift or a sub standard facility.

This approach does not impose conflict with other architectural elements or features. If the criteria are known at the onset, different elements can become an integral design. There are no bounds to innovative design.

3.2.2 Key issues :
Anthropometrics
Continuity
Connectivity
Equity
Safety
Sustainability
Inclusion

Anthropometrics:
The body and reach characteristics of people have a direct influence on accessibility. It is necessary to consider a broad range of population and take account of the physical build of females and males, as well as size variation and capability between different ages in achieving design for all. It is of equal importance to consider the maximum reach of people using assisted devices such as wheelchair, walking frames and crutches, guiding stick, as well as persons with baby stroller and shopping trolley. In addition, consideration of circulation and storage space must take account of these assisted devices.

Continuity:
The concept of continuity is very important when planning for universal accessibility. For example, a continuous accessible path of travel should be provided without barriers. When there are level changes along the path of travel, the continuity must be maintained by a ramp or other means such as a lift. At the same time, information must be provided at conspicuous locations and intersections and the display should be continuous to lead to the final destination. The way finding provisions should include visual, vocal and detectable surface.

Connectivity:
It is desirable to minimise distances travelled between accessible elements of buildings and facilities. Covered link bridges at upper levels are useful for connecting several blocks of building on the same site. It is a good means to connect facilities and save effort on travelling up and down between the buildings. The link bridges should be levelled as far as possible and handrails should be provided. The linkage should be accessible to all users and form a continuous path to other facilities.

Equity:
The essence of universal accessibility is to provide equitable access for all people including persons with a disability. For example, if a directory map is provided at the main entrance, it should be accessible to all users. Hence the information on the map should be accessible by all including the elderly, the physically handicapped, the visually and hearing impaired. The map should be equipped with tactile layout, text and voice information and located at a suitable height to facilitate equitable access.