Call for action on accessible toilet facilities at Gosford

Speaking during July’s meeting of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council Alderman Gareth WIlson said the forest park has taken its “biggest gate receipt in history” and praised the staff for their efforts.

“The pandemic has given a new opportunity with Gosford,” said the Cusher representative.

“When thinking about how we can raise revenue, Gosford truly is a gem that we can bet the best deal for, for both the user and the Council to improve what is already on offer.”

Alderman Jim Speers said the new facilities on offer at the park are a “tremendous improvement” on what was previously on offer.

“I want to congratulate Council officers on these changes,” said Alderman Speers.

“This was not done simply for the Council or Gosford this was for the economic benefit of the whole community.

“The numbers are good but lets ensure the local area gets an economic boost from this. We need to work with the local community to ensure the tourists who visit this facility are also spending their money in the local area.”

While members were full praise for the work Council has done to date, Councillor Julie Flaherty urged Council to press ahead with the installation of accessible toilets at Gosford.

“I have had many discussion with Council officers regarding facilities in Gosford,” said Cllr Flaherty.

“Is there a changing places toilet going in and when will that be available?”

In response Council’s head of estate and asset management Jonathan Hayes said: “The changing places toilet will be going in, in phase three of the capital work.”

However, speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Councillor Flaherty remained sceptical the work would be completed any time soon.

“The problem is having a changing places toilets is good practice, it is not in legislation and is therefore seen by some as a ‘good idea to do if we can’,” said Councillor Flaherty.

“I feel these facilities are very important and am disappointed to hear that they won’t be coming until the third phase of this development and there has been no firmer date than that given.”

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has been asked for comment on Gosford Forest Park’s gate receipts and visitor numbers.

Moves to resolve parking problems at Gosford - read more here

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