Changing Places opens at Albert Park
The latest phase of a town-wide initiative will help to open up one of Middlesbrough’s most popular visitor attractions to all.
The Visitor Centre at Albert Park now has its own Changing Places toilet, the second of three being created in the town.
The opening was marked at a celebration event with staff and users from The Orchard and The Pavilion day centres invited as special guests.
The second facility was funded by the Government’s Levelling Up scheme.
They were invited to cut the ribbon, watched by Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke, Deputy Mayor Philippa Storey and Middlesbrough Council’s interim Chief Executive Clive Heaphy.
Craig Holmes, Middlesbrough Council’s Parks Manager, said: “The Changing Places toilet enables us to be able to offer a facility where the public have access to dignified and hygienic toileting facilities for members of their family who have a disability.
“The facility is conveniently located within the park which enables visitors to visit and stay longer and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.”
In 2021 the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities allocated £30 million to the provision of Changing Places Toilets across England.
Middlesbrough Council was successful in its bid to secure funding for three additional Changing Places Toilets across the town.
Changing Places are larger than standard accessible toilets and are designed for adults and children with complex needs and include a changing bench, a hoist, a toilet, often a shower and plenty of space.
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “We have fantastic places for people to visit, but if they’re not properly equipped, they can exclude many of those who would get the most out of them.
“Too many people cannot enjoy getting out and about in their communities due to the lack of suitable facilities or have to struggle with existing public toilets.
“This latest Changing Places facility is a terrific addition to one of the jewels in Middlesbrough’s crown, and it will help more people than ever make the most of this fantastic facility.”