Three new Changing Places toilets to be installed at Brockenhurst, Ringwood and Hythe

EXTRA toilets for people with severe disabilities are to be installed across the New Forest, thanks to government funding.

The Changing Places facilities will be introduced at sites in Brockenhurst, Ringwood, and Hythe after New Forest District Council was granted £205,000.

The toilets feature adjustable items including a moveable ceiling hoist, changing bench, sinks, and a specialist toilet with extra space.

Cllr David Russell, cabinet member for people and places, said: “For some people these facilities can be life-changing and mean they can enjoy everything their local area has to offer with dignity and freedom.

“We want people with disabilities and their families and carers to be able to enjoy the New Forest, be that out on a day trip, travelling, or when just nipping to the shops, without having to worry about how they can access a suitable toilet.

“This means they can go about their day just like anyone else.”

The council has worked since 2017 alongside local campaigner Sarah Brisdion, whose son Hadley has cerebral palsy.

“As the local authority for providing public conveniences, we have worked with Sarah to ensure that any of our toilet refurbishments include these important facilities,” said Cllr Russell.

The new toilets are expected to open in 2024.

As part of the government’s national disability strategy, NFDC is one of 191 councils to receive a share of the £23.5m funding pot.

More than 500 new Changing Places toilets are to be built across England.