From October 2004, service providers may have to alter the physical features of premises if the service continues to be impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled people to use. Since October 1999 service providers have had to take reasonable steps to change practices, policies and procedures which make it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled people to use a service to provide auxiliary aids or services which would make it easier for, or enable, disabled people to use a service and to overcome physical features, which make it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled people to use a service, by providing the service by a reasonable alternative method. Since 1996, it has been unlawful for service providers to treat disabled people less favourably than other people for a reason related to their disability. These rights are being phased in over the period 1996 to 2004. Part III of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 ( DDA) gives disabled people a right of access to goods, facilities, services and premises. An integrated transport policy, which encompasses accessible public transport, public transport infrastructure and a barrier-free pedestrian environment is fundamentally important to delivering that commitment. The Government is committed to comprehensive civil rights for disabled people.
