Dunedin City Council has opened a new state-of-the-art fully accessible Changing Places restroom – the first such facility in the South Island.
Construction work on the public amenities near the Dunedin Railway Station began in January, with the final touches completed last week.
Changing Places bathrooms are designed for those with complex care needs who are unable to use standard accessible bathrooms or public toilets. As well as the Changing Places bathroom, Dunedin’s new facility features two other public toilets – one standard and one accessible – to replace the former toilet block at the railway walking overbridge.
Key features of a Changing Places bathroom include a height adjustable toilet and hand basin, privacy screen, built-in hand support grab handles, and a change table that doubles as a shower bed. There is also a ceiling track hoist system enabling individuals to move safely around the bathroom and provide support for caregivers.
Council Community and Civic Property Officer, Maria Sleeman says the Council worked alongside Changing Places New Zealand and local disability advocates to ensure their voices were heard when making decisions about the facility.
The Railway Station location was chosen due to its close proximity to town and ease of access.
“This has been an enlightening experience and one that I am proud to have been involved in. It’s a crucial project for our disability community and it’s great to see it come to fruition,” said Ms Sleeman.
Disability advocate, Barb Gee said it was fantastic to see the South Island’s first Changing Places bathroom open.
“I’m incredibly grateful to the Dunedin City Council for supporting the project and leading the way in the South Island,” she said.
“This is a game changer for those living with High and Complex needs in our community along with their families and carers.”
A new time-restricted mobility park has also been added outside the toilets to enable wheelchair users to safely disembark from their vehicles. The inside of the Changing Places bathroom features a bespoke art wall featuring images inspired by Dunedin’s heritage and environment.
Access to a Changing Places unit is limited to members registered with Changing Places New Zealand via a key card. These key cards can be obtained for those with complex care needs and severe disabilities by applying online.
The Changing Places toilet facility is a key part of the Council’s public toilets programme as part of the 10 year plan 2021–31, and has a budget of $750,000. This includes costs associated with the specialist equipment, amenities, construction, as well as infrastructure connections and installation.
