Cotswold Country Park & Beach has taken a significant step toward inclusivity with the installation of a fully compliant Changing Places toilet. This purpose-built modular facility ensures that visitors with severe disabilities, their families, and carers have access to safe, comfortable, and dignified amenities.
Funded by Cotswold District Council with support from Government grants, this project is part of a district-wide initiative to provide high-quality accessible facilities. The modular design was chosen for its efficiency, sustainability, and ability to blend seamlessly into the park’s natural surroundings.
For more information on the wider initiative, we acknowledge and refer to Cotswold District Council’s article.
The Importance of Changing Places Facilities
For many individuals with severe disabilities, standard accessible toilets do not meet their needs. Changing Places toilets provide the additional space and specialist equipment required to offer a dignified and safe experience.
Key Features of a Changing Places Facility:
✔ More Space – Designed to accommodate a wheelchair user and up to two caregivers, allowing safe movement.
✔ Height-Adjustable Adult-Sized Changing Bench – Provides a stable and dignified platform for users who require assistance.
✔ Ceiling Track Hoist System – Supports individuals who need assistance transferring between mobility aids.
✔ Centrally Located Toilet with Grab Rails – Ensures users can access the toilet from both sides, improving safety.
✔ Adjustable Washbasin & Non-Slip Flooring – Enhances hygiene, safety, and usability for all users.
✔ Privacy Screens & Additional Space – Allows carers to assist users while maintaining dignity.
This facility provides the freedom and confidence for individuals with disabilities to enjoy a full day out at Cotswold Country Park & Beach without worrying about the availability of appropriate facilities.
The Brief: Expanding Accessibility in the Cotswolds
In 2022, Cotswold District Council received £162,500 in Government funding to create more accessible toilets across the region. Prior to this project, the district had only one Changing Places facility (Westonbirt Arboretum), significantly limiting options for disabled visitors.
The new modular Changing Places toilet at Cotswold Country Park & Beach was designed to:
✔ Meet full accessibility requirements, with hoists, privacy curtains, and an adult-sized changing bench.
✔ Ensure a spacious, safe, and practical environment for disabled users, their families, and carers.
✔ Use sustainable materials, with external European redwood timber cladding that integrates with the natural surroundings.
✔ Provide a long-term solution, ensuring durability and compliance for years to come.
This project was the final installation in a series of four newly constructed Changing Places facilities across the district.
The Solution: A Modular, Prefabricated Approach
A 4m x 3m modular Changing Places unit was designed, built, and delivered using off-site construction techniques, ensuring:
✔ Rapid Delivery & Installation – Prefabrication reduced on-site work and minimised disruption at the park.
✔ Custom Accessibility Features – The unit was pre-fitted with all necessary features, ensuring compliance with Changing Places standards.
✔ Sustainability & Durability – The European redwood timber cladding not only provides aesthetic harmony with the park but also comes with a 30-year guarantee against rot and fungal decay.
The facility was delivered to site as a complete unit, with the client constructing an access ramp to ensure a seamless transition for wheelchair users.
The Changing Places unit at Cotswold Country Park & Beach was completed in September 2024 and is now fully operational.
✔ A fully compliant, fully equipped Changing Places facility, ensuring accessibility for those who need it most.
✔ Aesthetically integrated design, blending into the park’s natural landscape.
✔ A significant step forward in accessibility, making the Cotswolds a more inclusive destination for all visitors.
With this new addition, individuals with severe disabilities can enjoy a full day out at Cotswold Country Park & Beach without barriers.
Wider Accessibility Impact Across the District
The Changing Places unit at Cotswold Country Park & Beach is part of a larger effort to expand accessibility across the region. Three additional facilities have been delivered at:
✔ Abbey Grounds, Cirencester
✔ Birdland Park and Gardens, Bourton-on-the-Water
✔ Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power
This initiative marks a significant milestone in making Cotswold attractions more inclusive.
For more details on the district-wide accessibility initiative, visit Cotswold District Council’s article.
“Standard accessible toilets often fall short of meeting the needs of all individuals with disabilities. For too long, the lack of suitable facilities has meant disabled people faced major difficulties when going out. These Changing Places toilets will make a huge difference, ensuring everyone can enjoy our towns and attractions.”
Cllr Claire Bloomer, Cabinet Member for Communities
Wintech Modular’s Role in the Project
Wintech Modular is proud to have played a key role in delivering this essential accessibility facility.
✔ Expertise in Modular Accessibility Solutions – The facility was designed, manufactured, and installed to fully comply with Changing Places standards.
✔ Efficient Off-Site Construction – The unit was prefabricated to exact specifications, ensuring a seamless and quick installation.
✔ Commitment to Sustainable & Inclusive Spaces – The use of durable, eco-friendly materials ensures longevity while maintaining a natural aesthetic.
"We are delighted to have been involved in such an important project. Our modular construction approach ensures that high-quality accessibility facilities can be delivered efficiently, providing inclusive spaces for all members of the community." – Wintech Modular
Project Details
Location: Cotswold Country Park & Beach
Completion Date: September 2024
Size: 12sqm
External Cladding: European Redwood Timber
Client: Planning Solutions Ltd
Modular Construction Driving Accessibility
The Changing Places facility at Cotswold Country Park & Beach is a landmark achievement in making public spaces more inclusive and accessible. Through modular construction, this project demonstrates how efficiency, sustainability, and accessibility can be seamlessly combined.
Wintech Modular is honoured to have contributed to this transformative project and remains committed to delivering modular solutions that improve lives.
Interested in installing a modular Changing Places facility?
Contact us today to learn how modular solutions can transform your space into an inclusive environment for all.