Visiting Meriden Park is now easier and more comfortable for people living with disability following the opening of a new universally accessible public amenities block.
The block is located near the Dr Peter Topham Memorial Swimming Pool and includes one Universal Access Toilet (UAT) and two ambulant toilets.
The block also features the Shire of Harvey’s accredited Changing Places facility, now part of a network of 63 specialised ablution and changing facilities across Western Australia.
Changing Places facilities are designed for people with high support needs who are unable to use standard accessible toilets. The Meriden Park facility includes important features, such as a height-adjustable, adult-sized change table, automatic door and a privacy screen.
The changing facility is also larger than a standard accessible toilet to provide a safe and dignified experience for people living with disability and their carers.
Shire President Michelle Campbell said the universally accessible public amenities block was designed to ensure more people can enjoy Meriden Park for longer, regardless of their accessibility needs.
“Access to appropriate amenities can make the difference between participating in community life or staying at home,” the Shire President said.
“This project provides people with high support needs, their families and carers the confidence to visit Meriden Park knowing suitable amenities are available.
“In particular, we’re very grateful to the Shire of Harvey Access and Inclusion Advisory Group, which assessed the initial design and suggested improvements the Shire incorporated. This includes fitting a sliding door instead of a swing door on the UAT cubicle to make access easier for wheelchair users.
“We’re also incredibly grateful to the Department of Communities and the Australian Government for supporting this project with a $224,795 contribution, alongside the Shire’s investment of $278,094.
“This collaboration has led to another success story in the Shire of Harvey’s mission to provide greater dignity, independence, and participation for everyone in our community.”
The Changing Places facility is restricted access and can only be used by people who hold a Master Locksmiths Access Key. This is issued to eligible users through the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia.
The newly completed project is one of multiple being delivered under the Meriden Park Masterplan, which aims to create a modern, inclusive family and recreation precinct in Harvey.
Recently, the Shire has also delivered a fully enclosed dog exercise area and skate park, while planning an accessible playground and associated precinct improvements.
