New accessible changing facilities opened at West Bridgford sports park

A changing places toilet which allows people with mobility challenges to change more easily has been installed in Nottinghamshire.

The facility, at Gresham Sports Park in West Bridgford, features a height-adjustable adult changing bench, ceiling track hoist and peninsular toilet.

It also has space for two assistants and a privacy screen, to ensure greater access for people to engage with sport.

Cllr Jonathan Wheeler, Rushcliffe Borough Council’s portfolio holder for transformation, leisure and wellbeing said the new facility is part of the authority’s “continued effort to increase accessibility across the borough”.

He added: “Making sure places such as Gresham Sports Park are somewhere that can be utilised and enjoyed by everyone is absolutely essential so athletes, spectators and anyone can experience a safe and comfortable experience when visiting.”

The changing places toilet, which is the latest to be installed in Rushcliffe alongside Bingham Arena and Ruddington Country Park, was funded by a £50,000 grant from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

The sports park is home to footballers from the East Midlands Pan-Disability League who are among the groups who may benefit from the new facilities.

Michelle Marshall from Nottinghamshire FA added: “[This] is a great addition to the existing facilities already available at the venue, ensuring it is accessible for everyone.”

Further changing places facilities are planned as part of the authority’s redevelopment of Cotgrave Leisure Centre, which is due to be completed by March 2024.