New Guernsey States public building 'not ideal' for access

The new home for all of Guernsey States' public services has been labelled "not ideal" for those with disabilities who need suitable access.

ITV Channel's partner charity, Access for All, has been called in to make sure the place is accessible for everyone.

But, on their visit today they spotted a number of problems including no blue badge parking, no drop curbs and a steep pavement up to the entrance.

Peter Hill-Smith, a member of Access for All, uses the building once a month and says staff are very helpful, but he still has trouble getting into the building and his wheelchair won't fit into the cubicles inside.

• Watch: "It's a nightmare, the pavement is so narrow"

Tony Yates, from Access For All, was inspecting the building and highlighted some positives, including easy to open doors with big handles and windows.

But, he also noticed a lack of contrasting colours which help the visually impaired, as well as busy patterns which can be distressing for those with autism.

The charity works hard to make sure facilities in the island are easily accessible for people with a wide range of disabilities and difficulties.

The States have promised change, and already have a list of things to do including upgrading the lifts.

Some extra disabled spaces will also be included in the car park.

Ed Ashton, Head of Operations at Employment and Social Security, says since becoming the committee in charge of the disability inclusion strategy they have been on "a steep learning curve".

But they are "doing all they can to meet the requirements for accessibility issues".