Designated ‘Changing Places’ location not proposed in draft county plan
WHILE supportive of the Healthy Ireland for Louth Plan 2018-2022 and a Louth Disability Inclusion Plan 2017-2022, hopes for a designated ‘ Changing Places’ facility are not part of the council’s draft County Development Plan. The Chief Executive’s recommendation of ‘no change’ in relation to the proposal is likely to be debated by councillors as part of the forthcoming process.
The Changing Places for Drogheda and Beyond Group had proposed that the council ‘procure and provide a Changing Places facility, in the right location in a public building, in Drogheda. Ideally housing a Changing Places facility in a public building will ensure that it will be maintained and managed to high standards, O’Reilly’s in Narrow West St, West Gate area and the Dominican Church are suggested.’
They say that 600,000 people in Ireland have a profound diability (13.5%) of which 14% are in County Louth. Changing Places toilets are designed to support the disabled community and provide access to public toilet facilities that meet more complex needs, while offering more space and additional equipment.
There are 14 existing changing places facilities registered throughout the county. Inishowen in Donegal are also campaigning for one.
The Irish Wheelchair Association backed the proposal, supporting the campaign,’which is seeking to have at least 1 x12m2 specifically designed toilet facility located in Drogheda. This would enable people with complex disabilities to participate in all aspects of community life. Louth County Council has been proactive in many initiatives and implementing the ‘Changing Places Initiative’ would see the Council leading the field.’
The Chief Executive said, ‘recognition for and acknowledgement of the quantum of people with disabilities both nationally and within County Louth is noted. The Council has produced a Healthy Ireland for Louth Plan 2018-2022and a Louth-Disability Inclusion Plan 2017-2022 which fully integrates with the Louth LECP. Policy Objective SC 4 of the Draft Plan supports implementation of this Disability Inclusion Plan.’
It is felt that is sufficient in respect of the application by the Changing Places group.
Down Syndrome Ireland also called for the facility and the response included, ‘it should be noted that a ChangingPlace was included in the Drogheda Swimming Pool as part of a major refurbishment programme.’