A new Changing Places Toilet facility for disabled people has opened in a Morecambe park.
The new facility will provide essential facilities to a range of visitors to Happy Mount Park, from those with muscle-wasting conditions, to people who live with learning disabilities, or who have experienced major physical trauma.
The Changing Places Toilet (CPT) meets the very latest accessibility requirements and includes a height adjustable adult-sized changing bench and wash basin, ceiling hoist and a peninsular toilet with handrails.
Lancaster City Council has opened the new toilet after funding from the Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities (DHLUC).
It is the second city council owned Changing Places Toilet (CPT) facility operated and developed by Danfo UK within the Morecambe area. The other CPT is at the Festival Market at the other end of the promenade.
Councillor Abi Mills, the council’s Disability Champion, said she was "thrilled" that the facility was opening.
"Facilities like these are really important to ensure inclusivity for disabled people living in and visiting the district," said Councillor Mills.
Will Griffith, Chief Officer for Environment and Place at the council, said: “We are grateful to have been successful in obtaining funding to develop the new Changing Places Facility from DLUHC and hope that it will enable more disabled people and their families to experience the park and promenade in comfort.”
There has been a national campaign to have Changing Places Toilets installed all over the UK.
This is so that everyone, regardless of their access needs or disability or reliance on the assistance of carers or specialist equipment, can use a toilet facility with dignity and hygienically.
People with profound and multiple learning disabilities or with physical disabilities such as spinal injuries, muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis often need extra equipment and space to allow them to use the toilets safely and comfortably. These needs are met by Changing Places Toilets.
Changing Places Toilets are larger accessible toilets which enable anyone, regardless of their disability, to go to the shops, attend hospital appointments, enjoy community life, socialise and travel.
There are several other registered Changing Places Toilets within the district. A full list of the CPTs, how to access them and their opening hours can be found on the CPT website.
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