Legislative Context and Venue Design

The chapter examines the development of disability, accessibility, human rights within various legislative context as it impacts on the management of access and inclusion at sport and entertainment venues and events. This includes the building codes and technical documents currently in force and the main legal and managerial implications which are drawn from this legal context to guiding strategic decisions and responsibilities on the design, building and operation of sport venues and multipurpose arenas and associated events. It starts by analysing whether existing conventions, international and national laws and protocols are sufficient (or not) to guarantee the rights of people with disabilities as a diverse and heterogeneous group within the sport environment. It also examines the similarities and variances of the legal context and how this complex legal access context affects the design, planning, and operation of sport stadia and arenas in many countries. As access discrimination at sport venues and associated events has gradually gained more legal and sport managerial significance for both academics and practitioners, sport industry stakeholders need to know and understand the complexities and breadth of the legal access context, as well as demands from people with disabilities, to avoid complaints and penalties arising from noncompliance. It concludes by examining relevant cases involving multiple stakeholders such as advocacy organizations, disability activists and individuals with disability who have sought legal redress over alleged noncompliance.