BS 5709:2001 pdf free.Gaps,gates and stiles-Specification.
BS 5709 1 Scope This British Standard specifies field- measurable performance requirements for gaps, gates and stiles for footpaths and bridleways. It provides a hierarchy of performance requirements to enable choices to be made as to which type of structure is most appropriate in given circumstances. This British Standard does not apply to stiles with moving parts.
2 Terms and definitions For the purposes of this British Standard the following terms and definitions apply.
2.1  bridle gate device hinged at one side installed in a boundary such as a fence, hedge or wall which acts as a barrier to livestock and motor vehicles, but which allows the passage of horse-riders, cyclists, pedestrians and their dogs, and mobility vehicles
2.2  cycle  wheeled, non-motorized, pedal or hand powered vehicle
2.3  cyclist user of wheeled, non-motorized, pedal or hand powered vehicle
2.4  dog gate device allowing the passage of a dog, whilst preventing the passage of livestock
3.1 General The selection of a gap, gate or stile, which permits people to use a path crossing a feld boundary such as a hedge, fence or stone wall, shall result in as little restriction as possible for potential users, while meeting the actual agricultural needs of the landowners (principle of least restrictive option). The following are legitimate path users with respect to categories of rights of way (see Highways Act 1980 [1] and Countryside Act 1968 [5]): a) footpaths: 1) walkers (pedestrians); 2) wheelchair users; 3) walkers with dogs under control; 4) walkers with prams/pushchairs; b) bridleways: 1) all footpath users; 2) horse riders; 3) cyclists; 4) persons leading horses. NOTE 1 Where a landowner grants access by concession there is scope to define the range of users differently from those in right of way legislation for publie paths. For example, a permissive path could allow walkers and horse riders but preclude eyelists. NOTE2 Care is required in planning and installing gaps, gates and stiles on all routes where restrictions to mobility vehicle users, including invalid carriage users and other disabled persons, may be created (see Foreword).
If a gate, kissing gate or stile is to be provided on a path an assessment shall be made of whether such
action is reasonable. The following points shall be considered in the assessment:
a) the likelihood of the structure, taken in the context of its environment, causing some restriction to
users (e.g. a gate will be difficult for some people with reach or dexterity difficulties);
b) the extent of any restriction which will be created (e.g. a stile will create an absolute barrier to
wheelchair users and many walkers with pushchairs);
c) the effort or cost that would be required to take other measures to remove the need for a restriction.BS 5709 pdf download.