Shoppers with disabilities and their carers in Carlton are set to benefit from a new specialist toilet facility at Carlton Square after a £155,000 investment helped bring the project to life.
The new Changing Places Toilet has been installed to provide accessible facilities for people with a range of disabilities, helping make visits to local shops and amenities easier and more comfortable.
Changing Places toilets are larger than standard accessible toilets and include extra space and specialist equipment designed to support people with complex needs, as well as their families and carers.
The project was funded through £155,000 from the Mayor of the East Midlands and the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), using money provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Gedling Borough Council worked with contractor Healthmatic to build the facility during August and September.
Access to the toilet will be controlled through a key fob system to help prevent vandalism and misuse. People eligible to use the facility can apply for a key fob through Gedling Borough Council.
Councillor Kyle Robinson-Payne, Portfolio Holder for Corporate Resources and Performance, said: “The Council is very pleased to have delivered this much needed facility for our community, the first of its kind in Carlton. Everyone should be able to visit their local shops and take part in community activities with confidence, knowing that suitable toilet facilities are available and adapted to meet their needs.
“This new Changing Places Toilet will make a real difference to people with disabilities, their families and carers, giving them greater freedom and reassurance when visiting Carlton. Please contact the Council to find out more and apply for access to the facility.”
The Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, welcomed the opening of the new facility.
She said: “It’s great to see that UK SPF funding has been used by Gedling Borough Council to enable this new Changing Places facility to be built. These toilets will make a real difference to people and ensure that, regardless of disability, there is access to safe, comfortable and well-equipped toilet facilities in the Carlton area.”
Residents wishing to apply for access can visit www.gedling.gov.uk/public-conveniences or call 0115 901 3901 for more information.
