Swindon Council to Consult Blind Groups on Planning Applications

Hey, listen to this news from the council! It started with a motion back in March 2023. They wanted to check plans for equality sooner. This includes both new buildings and council projects. The council also aimed to get advice from disability groups.

They mentioned groups like the Royal National Institute for the Blind. They also included Wiltshire Blind Association. Learning Disability Partnership Swindon was named too. Tom Buxton, a council officer, presented a report. It followed up on the original motion.

He said they will ask the cabinet to agree. Certain groups will be consulted on some plans. These plans involve public access or public areas. Groups representing people with visual impairments will be included. However, it won’t apply to all applications.

Many applications deal with home improvements. Others involve small projects with little public access. Consultation isn’t needed for these, he explained. Major projects are different, though. He said these need wider public consultation.

These projects include public buildings or office spaces. Even industrial units fall under this. Sudha Nukana seconded the original motion. She said it’s crucial for everyone to safely walk around independently. This right should be assured.

Mr. Buxton clarified who they must consult. National rules already specify groups like flood agencies. But, the council can ask others too. He suggested adding new groups to the list.

Swindon Blind Association and Wiltshire Sight should be included. Also, the Royal National Institute of Blind People will be consulted. These groups will advise on major plans with public access. Other accredited disability groups can also be consulted. The committee approved sending the policy to the council’s cabinet.