Larger loos for disabled people installed at parks

New large accessible toilets that can accommodate many more people with disabilities have been installed at two country parks.

Changing Places Toilets have been mandatory in new buildings since 2020 and a year later, government funding was offered to add them to existing sites.

North Northamptonshire Council has put the facilities at Stanwick Lakes and Barnwell Country Park.

Matthew Binley, from the authority, said the toilets were "where they are most needed".

Unlike standard accessible toilets, Changing Places Toilets also meet the requirements of people who have spinal injuries, muscle-wasting conditions and multiple sclerosis.

North Northamptonshire Council said facilities were already at the Corby Cube, East Carlton Park, Rushden Lakes, Wicksteed Park, Waendel Leisure Centre and Corby Swimming Pool.

The toilets will also be added at Irchester Country Park and Wellingborough Library.

It will cost almost £500,000 for the facilities, with £330,000 coming from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

Mr Binley, executive member for highways, travel and assets, said: "Everyone deserves to have the freedom to enjoy their local communities without the fear of whether they're going to be able to access the facilities they need."

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