Plans for new toilet facilities move a step closer

LONG anticipated work on the toilets at Victoria Park is due to go out to tender as members of the council look at costs and move to push the project forward following a five-year wait. 

To help cut costs and save money, the existing Wallgate hand-wash units will be retained, along with the existing timer system to open and close the toilet cubicles.  

An application for funding from the Public Works Loan Board (PWLB) will also be made. 

Cllr Mark Dorrington said, “The building project will be in excess of £35,000, so we should go out to tender in line with our financial regulations.  

“There is an existing £58k project which is expected to cost between £80-120,000. This is insufficient funding for the project and it is recommended that we make a Public Works Loan Board (PWLB) application to finance the project after a tender is given or provided.” 

Cllr Mark Dorrington explained the toilets need to be modernised in design, in line with best practice and fit for purpose for all users in the park – as well as deter vandalism. 

He said, “The cubicles would have tiled walls and floors, with a floor gully for wash down. To reduce vandalism, fittings would be recessed where possible, with stainless steel paper dispensers and ‘wave-on’ flush system.” 

The plans include replacing the current rear accessed communal ladies and gents, with two single unisex cubicles with baby changing areas – including one changing places unit – accessed from the front of the building facing Mary Baily Field.

Cllr Dorrington continued, “Changing Places toilets are designed for people who may be limited in their own mobility, so need equipment to help them to either access the toilet or have their continence pad changed.”  

Requests to consider extending the toilets on to the outside of the café have previously been refused due to the costs it would accrue, including the necessary removal of a tree.

However, the café option may be looked at, as a means of avoiding further delay.

Recommendations now go to tender for the refurbishment of the Victoria Park toilets and return to councillors with a proposal for project funding once costs are known.