Work on the Montpellier Gardens public toilets, despite challenges, has been completed and marks an improved standard in the town’s public toilet facilities, which are now open.
- As well as male and female toilets, the newly refurbished block offers two new gender neutral accessible toilets, all gender family and baby change facilities and a changing places facility
- The facilities are pioneering sustainability measures including an air source heat pump, solar panels and improved water efficient installations
The refurbishment began following the final approval of the concept design in April 2023 and budget approval in February 2024. It includes a full renovation of the Montpellier Gardens toilets and whilst it has taken longer than anticipated to complete, it has been finished to a high standard and under budget.
Among the key highlights of the refurbishment is the creation of a Changing Places facility, which has been part funded by a grant from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). This new facility will ensure that Montpellier Gardens is accessible to all.
The refurbishment goes beyond accessibility improvements and addresses structural issues identified during surveys conducted by Roberts Limbrick our appointed architects and contract administrators and the wider consulting team. This work included repairs to walls and the roof, alongside enhancements to energy efficiency and sustainability measures, aligning with the council’s commitment to its climate ambitions.
Key features of the refurbished Montpellier Gardens toilets include:
- Male toilets: 3 standard cubicles with 3 urinals
- Female toilets: 6 standard cubicles
- 2 all gender family and baby change toilets with baby changing facilities
- 2 gender neutral accessible toilets
- 1 Changing Places facility (with radar key access)
- New fixtures, fittings, and redecoration throughout
- External water bottle refill station
- Improved external pathways, lighting, and signage
- Energy efficiency upgrades, including the installation of an air source heat pump, which will heat water for handwashing and water-efficient fittings
Councillor Izaac Tailford, cabinet member for waste, recycling and public realm, said: “We’re proud to have refurbished this vital space and we are delighted that Montpellier Gardens will now offer modern, accessible facilities that serve all members of our community.
“With sustainability at the heart of this project, we are also proud that the upgraded facilities will have a reduced carbon footprint, in line with the council’s climate ambitions.”
The project experienced delays due to the severity of the extensive structural issues within the building. However, despite setbacks, the project team have delivered a facility that meets high standards of both accessibility and sustainability. Special attention was given to ensure the upgraded toilets meet the council’s goals for improved energy performance, which will reduce the building’s environmental impact.
The refurbishment also aligns with Cheltenham Borough Council’s corporate objectives, which include improving the town’s infrastructure and ensuring public services are accessible to all residents and visitors.
The newly refurbished Montpellier Gardens toilets will provide a welcoming, modern, and accessible environment for everyone. The toilets are now open, and Cheltenham Borough Council looks forward to the benefits this facility will bring to residents and visitors of the town.
For media enquiries:
Cheltenham Borough Council communications, email [email protected] or telephone 01242 264231
