Camberley town centre is now home to a brand-new Changing Places toilet facility, officially opened by The Mayor of Surrey Heath, Councillor Louise Ashbery, on Thursday 18 December.
Located on the ground floor of Main Square car park, near the Cosy Corner Café entrance and adjacent to disabled parking, this facility provides vital support for residents and visitors with complex mobility needs.
Councillor Kel Finan-Cooke, Surrey Heath’s Portfolio Holder for Property and Economic Development, said:
“This is a great day for Camberley. We’re committed to making our town inclusive for everyone, and this facility ensures that people with disabilities who need extra equipment, more space, or assistance from carers, have what they need.
Accessibility is about more than convenience – it’s about equity. Everyone should have the same opportunity to take part in everyday life with dignity. We want everyone to feel welcome in Surrey Heath, and this addition will help more people enjoy everyday activities that many of us take for granted.
We have consulted and worked with local disability groups to ensure we placed this facility in a location where it is most needed and is also easily accessible for users and carers.”
The project was funded through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Infrastructure Fund and is the first Changing Places facility in Camberley town centre. Existing public toilets only offer standard accessible facilities, which lack features such as changing benches or hoists and are too small for multiple users.
What is a Changing Places Facility?
Changing Places toilets are larger, fully equipped spaces designed for people with more severe disabilities who need extra support. They include:
- A height-adjustable, adult-sized changing bench
- A tracking hoist system
- Ample space for a wheelchair and up to two carers
These facilities provide a safe, hygienic environment for individuals with complex needs, ensuring they can use the toilet with dignity and comfort.