Ms Sarah Neary:

The study will, we hope, reach the point of what is practical, economical and efficient in implementing part of, or the full suite, for a certain amount. That is where the research is going. Part M is the first step and there are features embedded in it that embrace the principles of universal design. We work very closely with the Centre for Excellence in Universal Design, CEUD, and the 'Smart Ageing' competition that we ran last year was based on the principles of universal design. Rather than be absolute in meeting the definition, we have always supported the principles and tried to incorporate them as much as possible. In respect of Part M, we refer to accessible approaches to dwellings, level thresholds, having a WC downstairs, suitable door and corridor widths. These are suitable for everybody, regardless of age, as a base level for housing.