New changing places toilets open up attractions to everyone

Two new, fully accessible changing places toilets are set to be opened to help those with a range of additional needs.

Unlike standard accessible toilets, changing places toilets have an adult changing bench, hoist facilities as well as extra space for carers.

It is estimated that more than 250,000 severely disabled people in the UK do not have access to public toilets that meet their needs which can severely restrict their ability to spend time away from home.

Thanks to government funding, changing places toilets will open at Darlington Hippodrome and in the Head of Steam Museum which is being redeveloped as part of the multi-million pound Rail Heritage Quarter.

Andy Keir, cabinet member for local services, said: “I am delighted that we have been successful in getting funding to provide these much needed facilities.

“There is already a changing places toilet at the Dolphin Centre and these two new facilities will open up other visitor attractions to the whole community.

“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the culture and heritage on offer in Darlington and these facilities will help ensure the railway museum and theatre are truly accessible to all.”

The national changing places toilets scheme is being delivered in partnership with the charity Muscular Dystrophy UK, who will be supporting the council to create the facilities.