Toilet block could be turned into community hub for dementia and toddler groups - here's what we know
Plans to redevelop a former public toilet block into a community hub have been revealed.
Ryan Godwin from Hazelwood Homecare is behind plans to transform the building at Higher Cloughfold, Rossendale, which was built around the 1920/30's as a public convenience and waiting room/shelter and an electricity substation.
The proposed works will reopen the main entrance section which was the waiting room, and remove the separating wall between the former waiting room and public conveniences.
Internally, the building will include toilets, a small kitchen and a community lounge. There is the potential for picnic benches outside for general gatherings.
A planning statement to Rossendale Borough Council says: “We would be guided by the community groups/charities and what they need as to opening times. However, if we say 9am to 9pm on a 7 day basis then we will have covered all bases.
“As to use, it will be a community hub. We expect places like Beacon Dementia group to use it, maybe some parent and toddler groups, any group who needs a free space to utilise to serve the community really. We are going to canvas the local community to try and get an idea of who may want to use – but really wanted this element sorted first so we can show the ‘empty’ room so that people understand if it will meet their needs.
“In terms of staffing there will be one person employed as caretaker manager but this employment will again be based upon need and use therefore at this time it is uncertain as to the full or part time basis.”
Objections have been submitted by local residents, concerned about anti-social behaviour and parking. Growth Lancashire says it does not believe the planned changes would be detrimental to the Cloughfold Conservation Area, in which the building lies.
A decision will be made in coming weeks by council planning bosses.
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