We are pleased to confirm that the long-awaited transformation of the Gravel Car Park Public Toilets will officially begin on Monday, 17 August 2026.
The project will transform the existing facilities into a welcoming, inclusive and safer space for the whole community. The works will modernise the building through the creation of individually accessed toilets and a dedicated, fully certified Changing Places facility, helping to ensure that essential amenities are accessible to everyone, regardless of their needs.
We are also delighted to confirm that the project has been successful in securing grant funding of up to 74.55% of eligible project costs through the Transforming Towns Placemaking Grant, administered through Powys County Council (PCC) with funding support from the Welsh Government. This significant investment has helped make the transformation project possible and represents an important contribution towards improving the town’s public facilities.
Over recent years, the Gravel Car Park toilets have presented increasing challenges in terms of maintenance and upkeep. Vandalism has also been an ongoing issue, while the existing internal layout does not provide the safest or most effective environment for users.
To address these concerns, the project will involve a complete strip-out and redesign of the internal layout. The new design will provide up to five externally accessed toilet cubicles. By reducing the amount of space required for general circulation and hand-washing areas, the redesigned layout will create approximately 12 square metres of additional space needed to accommodate a certified Changing Places facility. This will provide a much-needed accessible facility for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities, physical disabilities and other needs requiring additional space and specialist equipment.
The overarching vision is to deliver high-quality, inclusive toilet provision within an environmentally sustainable building. The project will focus on:
• Improved accessibility for all members of the community.
• Externally accessed toilet facilities to improve safety and reduce opportunities for vandalism.
• A fully certified Changing Places facility.
• Improved sustainability and efficiency in the design, operation and management of the building.
• A safer, more welcoming and practical environment for everyone.
Following a competitive tender process, the Town Council is pleased to announce that the transformation project has been awarded to local building contractor Phillip Jones Builders.
Work is scheduled to commence on Monday, 17 August 2026, with completion anticipated by the end of December 2026.
