During yesterday’s Communities and Local Government Questions, local MP and Chair of the CLG Select Committee, Phyllis Starkey, urged Ministers to ensure that a Changing Places toilet is required for every new public building.
CentreMK was one of the first public buildings in the country to install a Changing Places toilet. The new facility comes complete with: a height adjustable changing bench and hoist; a non-slip floor; and a screen or privacy curtain, therefore providing the extra space needed by disabled people and their carers and making a dramatic difference to the lives and shopping experiences of thousands of people who desperately need these facilities.
Dr Starkey said, "The Minister may not be aware that one of the first Changing Places toilets was installed in the centre of Milton Keynes. It means that families with disabled children can enjoy a day out just like any other family. When part M of the building regulations is looked at, may I urge him to ensure that it includes a requirement that a Changing Places toilet is put in every newly built major public building"
Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Ian Austin, replied, "I congratulate my hon. Friend on the impact that she has had at a local level in ensuring that Milton Keynes was one of the first towns in the country to install one of the 85 new facilities that I am pleased to say have been developed. I can give her the assurance that she seeks, and I believe that the 85 facilities that have been developed are a very good start. I encourage all hon. Members to work with their local authorities, as she has, so that more can be provided in future".
With the increasing toilet facilities being installed in the future, the nessecity for security and management of these facilities will be vital. Toilet turnstiles offer reliability and a 2 year guarantee, whilst ensuring that the cost requirements of running toilet facilities to a high standard are met.