The New Forest District Council started their project to improve accessibility by transforming an existing public toilet block in Brockenhurst Forest to include a Changing Places facility, thanks to funding from DLUHC. Aligned with a shared vision, CareSpaces was excited to take on this challenge, aiming to make a meaningful impact on residents and visitors.
The site chosen for this transformation was a toilet block from the 1980s located within a public car park, as seen in the picture below.
In collaboration with the council’s architects and specialists, we followed the plans and specifications outlined, which adhered to the British Standard guidelines BS8300. Our team went a step further to refine and consult on changes to these plans, ensuring the facility met all necessary registration requirements while remaining functional for any user.
To begin with, we relocated the entrance to the men’s toilets, and created a wider doorway to the new Changing Places room, an adjustment needed to improve the accessibility to the new facility.
Inside the existing structure, we assembled the Changing Places facility with attention to the smallest details. A solid partition wall was built to house two new hand wash and dry units in the renewed Mens WC area, essential for promoting good hygiene.
The interior of the Changing Places toilet was designed to be welcoming and comfortable. We installed a timber joisted ceiling to hold the ceiling hoist whilst the new blockwork walls were adorned with vibrant laminate boards in two colours. We chose an Altro Resin flooring for its durability and slip-resistance
We installed specific services inside the walls to serve the equipment, including a toilet , handrails, an adjustable basin, a changing bench, and a ceiling-mounted hoist system, all precisely positioned according to the approved plan.
The renovation extended beyond the Changing Places facility. We also updated the adjacent men’s toilet area, reorienting and re-plumbing the urinals, and updating the space with new tiling and decorations. We also improved an adjacent accessible WC with new hand rails.
To improve access, we undertook external landscaping, constructing a new pathway and retaining wall, and repairing tarmac surfacing to the car park, keeping in character with the surrounding area.
Despite facing the challenge of persistent bad weather – keeping water out of the area was a challenge, and heating the space to dry out the area before finishes were installed – our CareSpaces building team persevered, implementing strategies to keep the project on track. Over eight weeks, we successfully completed the planning, construction, and finishing touches.
The new space looks fantastic both externally and internally, and is now registered on the Changing Places UK map
