Work starts on new accessible toilet facility thanks to successful funding bid

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Installation started this week (w/c Monday 2 May) on a new accessible toilet facility at the Tropicana in Weston-super-Mare.

This has been made possible thanks to a successful bid by North Somerset Council securing £120,000 in government funding for two Changing Places conveniences.

The second accessible toilet facility will be installed at the Lake Grounds in Portishead next financial year (by March 2024).

When the government’s £30 million Changing Places Fund scheme was announced as part of the Budget 2021, the government stated that more than 250,000 severely disabled people across the UK did not have access to public toilet facilities that meet their needs.

Changing Places toilets are larger and accessible for people with limited mobility, disabilities or specific care needs. They are fitted with hoists, privacy screens, adult-sized changing benches, peninsula toilets and have space for carers.

Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s executive member for neighbourhoods and community services, said: “Accessible toilets, like the superb Changing Places facilities, provide an essential public service. They allow those with accessibility requirements to enjoy places and days out without worry.

“I’m delighted that we’ve been awarded this funding so we’ll see more facilities in North Somerset and the opportunities they will bring for our residents and visitors.

“As part of the council’s vision to be fair, providing inclusive and accessible features across the area is a priority. We’ll continue to actively seek out funding and revenue streams to provide more of these facilities.”

The council is proud to already have a Changing Places facility at the Town Hall in Weston-super-Mare.