A contractor will be appointed by the Galway City Council to install a Changing Places facility at Ladies Beach in Salthill.
A Changing Places facility is a toilet for those with complex needs. It differs from regular disabled toilets as it provides 12sq metres of floor space and includes a full room coverage ceiling track hoist; a centrally located toilet bowl, with space either side for transfers or assistants; and a height adjustable adult size changing bench.
The facility is to be locarted at the Ladies' Beach area. Works are due to commence in the coming weeks, with the project due for completion in January 2022. The initiative was spearheaded by Fine Gael Galway City West councillor, Clodagh Higgins, after engaging with disability groups in the city.
In December 2019, she brought a motion to the city council demanding a Changing Places facility. This was unanimously supported by the other elected members.
“There are now just 17 Changing Places facilities in Ireland with 10 located in Dublin,” said Cllr Higgins. “This initiative is wonderful news for the city and I will continue to advocate for enhanced facilities for those that need them.”
