Almost three-quarters of small businesses in Sussex will ignore new disability legislation when it is introduced next year.

They will refuse to make changes to their premises and working practices, according to a Royal National Institute for the Deaf survey.

As a result, thousands of firms face being sued when the Disability Discrimation Act comes into full effect next October.

New laws will require businesses to modify their premises to make them more suitable for people with disabilities.

Companies might have to install wider doors and ramps for wheelchair-bound customers or train their staff in deaf awareness.

Multi-storey premises will probably have to install lifts which might prove very costly - or impossible - in period properties.

Disabled charities have welcomed the legislation but reaction from the business community has been icy.

Tony Mernagh from the Brighton City Centre Business Forum said the act was vague and unworkable.

He said: "Small business will have to take reasonable steps to comply with the act but what is a reasonable step? I think a lot of small businesses will ignore this and wait to get sued."

Mark Froud, chief executive at Sussex Enterprise, said: "We welcome any new legislation for people with disabilities and urge businesses to be prepared."

Wednesday November 12, 2003