What Corridor Width for a Wheelchair?

Width Requirements

• 900mm: Ambulant person only — not wheelchair accessible
• 1,000mm: Tight wheelchair access (not compliant for new builds)
• 1,200mm: Minimum for single wheelchair travel (Part M domestic)
• 1,500mm: Wheelchair can turn 90° into a doorway
• 1,800mm: Two wheelchairs can pass each other
• 2,000mm: BS 8300 recommendation for public buildings

Turning and Manoeuvring Space

• 90° turn: 1,200mm × 1,200mm minimum
• 180° turn: 1,500mm × 1,500mm minimum
• 360° turn: 1,700mm diameter circle (BS 8300)
• T-shaped turning: 1,400mm × 1,400mm minimum

Domestic vs Non-Domestic

For new dwellings, Approved Document M (Volume 1) requires the entrance storey to have accessible widths. Category 2 (accessible and adaptable) and Category 3 (wheelchair user) dwellings have stricter requirements including wider corridors and larger turning circles.

Corridor Design Tips

• Avoid changes in floor level along corridors
• Provide adequate lighting (100 lux minimum)
• Use contrasting colour at junctions, doors, and obstacles
• Avoid projecting radiators, fire extinguishers, or signage into the clear width
• Handrails should not reduce the clear width below the minimum

Important Note

These are general guidelines based on Approved Document M and BS 8300. Always consult Building Control for specific projects. The Wheelchair Housing Design Guide provides more detailed requirements for purpose-built wheelchair housing.