RBS case highlights need for Access Audit

• Posted by Ian Eggleton on 23rd Nov ’09 at 12:37 GMT
• 0 comments

RBS forced to complete DDA works to Sheffield Branch

RBS this week lost their appeal against a ruling forcing them to carry out extensive works to their Sheffield Church Street branch which some sources estimate to be more than £100k in value.

For further details of the ruling click here.

This case demonstrates that the cost of works are not necessarily the deciding factor when considering the test of reasonableness particularly when dealing with the larger corporate ‘beasts’ with significant resources behind them.

It is a little ironic though that the taxpayer will probably end up funding about 85% of this!

On a more serious note this does highlight the need to pursue all options when dealing with historic buildings rather than just relying on listed status as a bar to action as it seems may have been the case here.

It would be interesting to know whether RBS had commissioned an access audit and, if so what it said?

We have completed dda audits and adjustive works to more than 150 high street banks but must admit that we have come across numerous branches housed in Listed Buildings where gaining level access really is wholly impractical.

It will be interesting to see whether this judgement prompts renewed action from the high street banks many of whom have adopted a similar approach to RBS by offering alternative means of access via other branches and internet and phone services as ‘reasonable’ alternative options.

Click the link to read more about access audits.