Welshpool to open Changing Places facility
Changing Places provide enhanced, accessible toilets with hoist systems and changing benches for people with severe disabilities.
They are few and far between, especially in the whole of Mid Wales, so the town council believes such a facility will attract what is known as ‘the purple pound’ and position the town as an accessible destination.
The project has been led by Cllr Nick Howells who spotted an opportunity during his term as Mayor three years ago.
He was aware of such a facility at Castle Caereinion Primary School which was due to close and negotiated for the Town Council to secure the expensive equipment for free.
It was planned as part of the costly renovation of the Welshpool Information Centre building, but got held up due to the overall budget spiralling. However, he persevered and it was revealed at last night’s Operations and Development Committee meeting that it is nearing completion.
“This project has been really dear to me,” he said. “I am hugely proud to say that we will be one of the few towns in Wales to have a Changing Places facility.”
Cllr Howells was praised by fellow councillors, and Town Clerk, Richard Williams, who was also involved in the initial negotiations with the school through a previous role, said it will provide a tremendous boost to the town’s reputation.
“This will bring in the purple pound and put Welshpool on the map as a fully accessible place to visit,” said Mr Williams.
The final job is to install a movable sink and, once completed, the facility can be opened and registered on the officially Changing Places map.
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