Date: 14/04/2009
Major alterations and refurbishment works have been completed at the Market Place public toilets in Chapel-en-le Frith.
The refurbishment of the convenience was completed on budget and with only a minimal delay despite the very 'inconvenient' discovery of utility services buried beneath the surface after work had started, which led to extra excavations and unexpected redesigns.
High Peak Borough Council, working with architects Jennings Design Associates, carried out the works to improve access to the toilets, which are in an underground location, and eliminate the problem of excessive damp.
Located in a conservation area, alterations to the building had to be carefully designed.
Thanks to some clever adaptations, disabled people and parents with child buggies can now access the toilets. The old steps have been replaced with a ramp and the inside of the facility has been completely redesigned, with a fully accessible toilet and washroom.
To protect it from the damp problems the facility has been completely 'tanked'. It has also been rewired and re-plumbed.
John Haken, High Peak Borough Council's Executive Councillor for the Environment, said: "The £50 000 investment to refurbish the public toilets in Chapel-en-le-Frith forms part of the Council's asset management plan. We are delighted that the improvements will benefit residents and visitors alike."
Photo: (Back row, L to R) Cllr John Haken, High Peak Borough Council's Executive Councillor for the Environment; Cllr Guy Martin, Chairman of Chapel-en-le-Frith Parish Council; Cllr Mike Smith, Chairman of Chapel Regeneration Committee; and Cllr Stuart Young, Ward Councillor for Chapel-en-le-Frith. Front row: local resident Sarah Robinson).