ROSS-ON-WYE Town Council is planning to invest approximately £50,000 towards the installation of a new accessible toilet facility at Red Meadow car park.

The proposed Changing Places toilet would be installed on land adjacent to the existing toilet block, providing improved facilities for people with complex accessibility needs.

The project is progressing following recommendations from the council's Finance and Property Sub-Committee, which met on October 6 to discuss the proposed development.

Changing Places toilets are designed for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets, offering additional space and specialist equipment to support users and their carers.

The council plans to appoint a contractor to undertake the installation, with grant funding covering part of the overall cost.

However, approximately £50,000 is expected to be required from the council's earmarked reserves to meet the remaining expenditure.

The project will also require an agreement with Herefordshire Council, which controls the land where the new facility would be located.

Town councillors are seeking a long-term lease for the site rather than a short-term licence, providing greater security for the investment and future operation of the facility.

Up to £3,000 could also be spent on legal fees associated with securing the necessary lease arrangements.

The proposals form part of the town council's ongoing work to improve accessibility and public facilities across Ross-on-Wye.

A dedicated Changing Places working group, convened by Councillor Freer, has been established to oversee the development and progress of the project.

The plans will be considered by the Full Council at its meeting on Monday, October 12, when councillors will be asked to approve the proposed contractor appointment, funding arrangements and land agreement.

The meeting will take place at Ross Town Hall on Cantilupe Road, starting at 7pm, with members of the public able to attend.