Lancashire visitor attraction to become more inclusive with new Changing Places facility
A popular visitor attraction in Lancashire is to become more inclusive thanks to the addition of a new Changing Places facility.
The facility is being created at Fairhaven Lake and Gardens, in Lytham St Anne’s, thanks to funding from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Fylde Borough Council and the Changing Places Fund.
Once completed, the Changing Places facility will provide an accessible toilet and specialist equipment available on site to ensure no-one is excluded from enjoying a trip to the beauty spot.
The ongoing work is being undertaken by a team from Blackpool-based construction company Evolution – which operates across the North West to build communities through projects that leave a positive and lasting social impact.
JJ Fitzgerald, Managing Director of Evolution, said: “Changing Places are opening up locations that were previously off limits to people with limited mobility or those who needed special equipment in place to change.
“We’re very proud to work on this project at Fairhaven Lake. It’s a place that people of all ages love to visit and we are delighted to play our part in making sure that its facilities can be accessed and enjoyed by everyone.”
It is estimated that more than a quarter of a million people need access to a Changing Places facility to be able to get out and about – something so many others take for granted.
Changing Places facilities typically offer a room with a peninsular toilet and space to manoeuvre as well as equipment including a height-adjustable changing bench and a ceiling hoist.
The new Changing Places facility at Fairhaven Lake and Gardens will be created within the operational boathouse and will have an external access point.
Councillor Michelle Morris, Lead Member for Customer and Operational Services at Fylde Borough Council, said: “We are proud to continue our efforts in improving accessibility across Fylde.
“The construction of the new Changing Places facility demonstrates our dedication to ensuring that everyone has equal access to appropriate facilities.
“This installation will greatly benefit those who need additional support, enabling them to navigate our community with greater ease and allowing them to participate fully in day-to-day activities.”
Recently, healthcare equipment provider Innova Care Concepts announced that it was installing a Changing Places restroom facility at the iconic heritage railway station at Ravenglass, that sits on the famous Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway in West Cumbria.
