Overview
JNP Group deliver Diversity Impact Assessments (DIAs) on a wide range of railway infrastructure projects throughout the UK, including stations, road bridges, footbridges and culverts.
A DIA is Network Rail’s method of assessing the impact of their projects and proposals in the context of diversity and inclusion, which is required under the Public Sector Equality Duty of the Equality Act (2010). A DIA is typically carried out before and during the design stage, ensuring that the needs of those who are affected by the works is considered before key decisions are made.
JNP Group have prepared over 400 DIAs, many of which were for projects which required the use of temporary works.
For temporary works schemes, it is key to make sure that the temporary arrangements are as accessible as possible for those travelling through the area. For example, temporary footbridges at stations can be less accessible than the existing arrangements. Works requiring road closures can cause delays and affect access to bus services, which are relied on by school children and for vulnerable groups making key journeys.
Examples of temporary works which need to be assessed through a DIA are as follows:
- Full and partial road closures, including footway suspensions
- Hoarding, scaffolding and barriers near worksites
- Temporary changes to the parking arrangements at stations
- Temporary footbridges
- Public Rights of Way diversions and closures
Gallery
Services Provided
- Production of DIA using Network Rail’s DIA Digital platform
- Site visits and client meetings where necessary
- Email consultation with local stakeholders e.g. schools, charities, places of worship
- Liasion with client team regarding challenges and opportunities for inclusive design
Challenges
- Restricted platform widths
- Removal of tactile paving along platform edges
- Long and inaccessible diversion routes for pedestrians
- Increased journey times through roadworks
- Suspension of accessible parking bays
- Wayfinding through the works for those with sight loss
- Removal or relocation of signage and barriers
Solutions
- Liaison with local stakeholders to identify any concerns or accessibility requirements
- Identifying minimum footway widths and suitable diversion routes for schemes with traffic management
- Recommending accessibility features for temporary footbridges e.g. closed risers
- Provision of an Action Plan with timescales for the recommended mitigation measures
