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External environments

5.25 Gates and stiles

Where the public have a right of entry to the countryside - together with their aids to mobility where applicable - then two problems arise. Firstly, gates and stiles must allow entry to wheelchair users without letting livestock escape. Secondly, if a wheelchair user can pass through the barrier then motorcycle users may also be able to enter which could be undesirable.

Contents

• Gates
• Stiles
• Diagram of a kissing gate
• Diagram of a stile
  

Gates

Where motorcycles are not a problem then an ordinary gate can be used. Ideally this gate should have:

• a minimum clear opening of 850mm
• latch mechanism operated by a lever with a horizontal action
• handles/knobs located between 750mm and 800mm from the ground
• a kick plate installed at the base of the gate.
  

Where motorcycles are likely to be a problem then "kissing gates" should be used. Alternatively, an ordinary gate
with a RADAR padlock restricting its use could be installed.

Stiles

Stiles are an insurmountable barrier to all wheelchair users and many ambulant disabled people. However, they have been a feature of the British countryside for many years and most farmers would be reluctant
to see them disappear.

the design of a stile that is more accessible to ambulant disabled people includes:

• a broad, strong top rail which enables people to sit on the stile and swing their legs over
• a rounded top post to give an additional hand-hold
• broad bottom steps which are close together to assist the climb.
  

A space of at least 900mm can also be provided adjacent to the stile, with removable posts, for occasions when wheelchair or pushchair users need to gain access. Restricted access can be maintained using a
RADAR padlock.

A stile can also be used to show that the ground ahead is unsuitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs.

next part of fact sheet 5.25

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