Why doorways are a barrier
Many Victorian and Edwardian houses in Newcastle and Tynemouth have narrow internal doors, often with tight hallways. A wheelchair needs sufficient clear width to pass, plus room to turn and approach the door. Even a few centimetres of extra width can make a difference to independence, and widening is often more practical than moving rooms around.
How it is done
Widening a door means removing part of the wall at the side of the opening. If the wall is only a partition, this is a simple operation. If it is a load-bearing wall, the loads must be carried by a new lintel or beam across the wider gap. The size of the support depends on the wall construction and loads above, and may need a structural engineer's design. See lintel replacement and steel beam installation.
- Survey of the wall type and what lies above
- Temporary support if the wall is load-bearing
- Careful cutting out of brickwork or removal of studwork
- New lintel or beam fitted on proper bearings
- Making good plaster, architraves and flooring
- Fitting the wider door and lining, with low threshold where possible
Practical things to consider
Door width is only part of the issue. The space in front of and behind the door matters, including turning room, door swing, handle height and thresholds. Sometimes a sliding or pocket door works better than a hinged one. We also consider things like electrical switches and radiators that might be in the way.
Old walls and dust
Solid brick walls in older Tyneside homes are dense, and cutting them creates dust and noise. We protect floors and neighbouring rooms and keep the work tidy. Chimney breasts and flues can sometimes sit near the opening, which needs care.
Funding and approvals
Structural alterations usually need Building Regulations approval, and guidance on accessible dimensions is given in Approved Document M. Disabled Facilities Grants may be available for adaptations, see GOV.UK. Listed buildings need consent, see the Planning Portal. Related work includes level-access entrances and accessible bathrooms.
Frequently asked questions
How wide does a doorway need to be for a wheelchair?
It depends on the wheelchair and the approach angle. Approved Document M gives guidance on clear opening widths, and we recommend measuring the actual chair and discussing the layout.
Can any wall be opened up for a wider door?
Most can, but load-bearing walls need proper support. We check what the wall carries before deciding how to do it.
