Issue - meetings

Purpose.

The purpose of this report is for information only and provides the Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Environment with an update on the Changing Places Toilet Scheme in Portsmouth. The information provided will be as follows:

1.     Provide the background to the Changing Places Toilet Scheme, including the funding awarded.

2.     An update on the progress of the phase 1 works.

3.     An update on the Phase 2 application.

RECOMMENDED that the report be noted.

Meredydd Hughes, Assistant Director for Buildings introduced the report and in response to questions, explained that:

·       Radar keys can be obtained via the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation website.

·       Additional signage can be put on the facilities to make it clear that they are available for all.

·       Portsmouth was identified as being in the second quarter because of the lack of facilities in the city.  There are public toilets at the Hover terminal, Gunwharf Quays and a church in Arundel Street.  Adding six new ones under this scheme will make a significant improvement.

·       A changing places facility was installed at Southsea Library approximately ten years ago, but these are the first standard changing places facility installed in the city.

·       In 2021, the original grant was for a total of £30 million.  The second round was the money that had not been spent.  The team keeps an eye out for any opportunities for funding for retrofitting existing buildings.

·       By law, any public buildings that have a capacity for more than 300 people must have these facilities.

Colette Hill, Assistant Director for Neighbourhoods added that over the last few years, public toilets had been installed at Kingston Recreation ground and College Park.  The toilets at Drayton Lane and Hilsea were re-opened.  One in Eastney that was due for closure was kept open and one in White Hart Road re-opened.  These are all accessible and unisex.  All the locations of these and others that are on the community toilet scheme are on the council's website.

Councillor Barrett noted that the feedback had been very positive and was pleased that facilities are being installed around the city.

DECISION

The report was noted.