Modern new toilets approved for Blaby village
Plans for new, fully accessible toilets with a Changing Places unit in central Blaby have been approved.
Work should start on the block soon with an opening later in the spring after the green light was given by members of Blaby District Council’s Planning Committee.
The existing, dilapidated, brick building on the John’s Court car park will be demolished to make way for a modern, modular facility with rustic, red brick cladding, steel doors and a green environmentally friendly 'sedum' roof.
It will include a highly specialised Changing Places unit able to accommodate the needs of severely disabled children and adults who need assistance when using the toilet or having incontinence pads changed.
For these people and their families or carers, standard accessible toilets don’t have the space or the equipment required for them to be able to use the facilities in a safe, hygienic and dignified way.
Blaby District Council will install the Changing Places unit which will feature hoists, a large changing bed, privacy screens and a height-adjustable wash basin.
It will be accessed using a keypad with the PIN obtained by users calling a 24/7 365 days a year customer service desk.
There will also be a separate, standard, accessible toilet with washbasin, baby changing table and contactless entry.
The plans also account for an extra two disabled parking bays close to the block to ensure ease of access those using the Changing Places unit.
Councillor Nigel Grundy, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services and Assets for Blaby District Council, said: "I am absolutely delighted plans for the new toilets in the centre of Blaby have been approved and we can start work on creating modern, accessible facilities for all.
"When we had the chance to add new toilets we wanted to ensure we offered the best facilities we could for the benefit of all residents and visitors.
"So many families who look after someone with special needs or disabilities have to miss out on the daily activities we all take for granted simply because there are no suitable toilet facilities available. Hopefully this new block will help change that."
Councillor Nigel Grundy
Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services and Assets