Safe pedestrian routes – Definition, measurement and verification - KBCN0238
Definition
Safe pedestrian routes include pavements and safe crossing points, which may be controlled or, for example, be identified by tactile paving, a crossing island or a dropped kerb. An element of judgement may be required, in which case justification should be provided.
Measurement
Distances could be measured, for example, along a pavement, across a road at a safe crossing point and along the pavement on the other side. The distance should not be measured diagonally across a road, following the most direct route.
Verification
The assessor’s site inspection is an important aspect of the assessment and may help to confirm that all relevant information is current and can include photographs of any key areas. This can also help to identify safe crossing points or hazards which may not be apparent from a desktop study. Alternatively, web-based map data may be used to satisfy the evidence requirements at both Design and Post-Construction Stage, provided that the assessor is satisfied that this clearly demonstrates compliance and that the evidence is robust and up to date.
Where web-based navigation maps (e.g. Google Maps/Street View) are used as evidence, this must include:
• Dated and marked-up site plan or a web-based navigation map viewer highlighting:
• Current location and type of transport nodes and local amenities.
• Current route and distance from the building via a safe pedestrian route.
• Plan or map scale.
When relying on web-based evidence for post-construction stage, the assessor must, additionally, provide verification that the information provided for the nodes/amenities is still accurate and up to date.
16 Sep 2025 - Wording relating to verification updated to clarify the intent.
29 Aug 2025 - Approach to web-based map data at post-construction stage updated and related wording amended accordingly
07 Mar 2024 - No changes have been made. This appears as 'updated' due to an administrative error.
11 Jan 2024 - Wording re-structured for clarity
19 Dec 2023 - Applicability to BIU V6 confirmed
Information correct as of 24