New guidelines to make Beijing more disable-friendly

New residential complexes in Beijing with 4 or more storeys will have to be equipped with elevators in a bid to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, Chinanews.com reports.

Beijing's Municipal Commission for Urban Planning has issued a new set of guidelines aimed at making both residential buildings and public offices more accessible for those in wheelchairs or those who are visually impaired. There is an upcoming public hearing to discuss these new guidelines.

According to the new guidance, at least one elevator is required in each unit in all new residential buildings. The elevators, specially designed for those with visual or physical impairments, will feature buttons in Braille and speakers to assist the visually impaired. They will also include railings and a mirror that helps someone in a wheelchair to reverse into the elevator.

Other guidelines stipulate the reserving of adequate parking spaces for special vehicles.