This is the first of two fully accessible facilities to be installed at Mid Devon Leisure, with work starting at Culm Valley Sports Centre soon.

Last year Mid Devon District Council secured grant funding of more than £150K towards creating fully accessible facilities at its leisure sites in Cullompton and Tiverton.

The funding is part of the Changing Places fund, administered by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, which aims to support disabled people with improved access and facilities.

Changing places offer those with profound disabilities an array of facilities that are not available in a standard accessible toilet.

Building work began in January 2024 at Exe Valley Leisure Centre to put in a Changing Places Toilet, utilising a changing room which was rarely used. Designed for those who struggle to use standard accessible toilets, these new facilities include a disabled toilet, rise and fall sink, changing bench, hoist and space for carers.

Councillor David Wulff, Cabinet Member for Community and Leisure, said:

“I’m delighted that we can celebrate the completion of the first of two accessible toilets at our leisure sites. I would like to say thank you to the MS Society who have provided valuable insight and advice on the best layout and design for these new facilities. Changing Places Toilets are larger, truly accessible toilets for disabled people. Regardless of ability, everyone is welcome at our leisure centres."

A further Changing Places Toilet facility will be completed later this year at Culm Valley Sports Centre. Both facilities, once complete, will be added to an online map to help people find their nearest Changing Places Toilet. The facilities will not be limited to solely Mid Devon Leisure customers - residents and visitors who are in need of fully accessible facilities will be able to use these too.

To find out more about the Changing Places Funding: Changing Places toilets fund - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)