Repair and improvement works have recently been completed at the Vicarage Field public toilets, with the Changing Places facility and adjoining toilets fully reopened to the public.
The works have been carried out to address previous damage and vandalism and ensure that the town’s modern public toilet facilities remain safe, clean and welcoming for residents and visitors.
As part of the works, new lighting has been installed in the Changing Places facility and both modular public toilets, while a new ceiling has also been installed in the central toilet.
The improvements ensure that the Vicarage Field facilities continue to provide modern, accessible and free-to-use amenities in the heart of Hailsham town centre.
Tony Lee, Operations & Facilities Manager at Hailsham Town Council, said: “We’re pleased to have completed these repairs and to have the Vicarage Field facilities fully operational again. The damage that had occurred meant that work was necessary to ensure the toilets continued to provide the standard of facility that residents and visitors rightly expect.”
“The new lighting in all three toilet areas has made a noticeable improvement, while the new ceiling in the central toilet completes the necessary repairs following the previous damage. Our priority throughout has been to make sure the facilities are safe, clean, functional and welcoming.”
“The Changing Places facility is particularly important because it provides a specialist facility for people with multiple or complex disabilities who may not be able to use a standard accessible toilet. We are pleased that it is now fully available again.”
Cllr Dave Chapman, Chair of Assets Management Committee, added: “The Vicarage Field toilets are an important facility in the town centre and represent a significant investment by the Town Council. It is therefore disappointing when facilities such as these are damaged through vandalism, but I am pleased that the necessary repairs have now been completed.”
“The Changing Places facility in particular provides an important service for residents and visitors with more complex accessibility needs, and ensuring that it remains available is a priority for the Council.”
“The facilities were funded through Community Infrastructure Levy contributions and opened in March 2024, providing modern, accessible and free-to-use public conveniences for Hailsham. We want people to be able to use them with confidence and enjoy a clean, safe and welcoming environment.”
The Vicarage Field public toilet facility first opened in March 2024 following investment funded through Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) contributions.
The facility includes:
A RADAR key is required to access the Changing Places facility.
Since opening, the toilets have received positive feedback from residents for their cleanliness, accessibility and modern design.
One local resident commented: “The new facilities are spotless, spacious, warm and inviting. I’ve never seen such clean and spacious public toilets on my travels – a massive well done and thank you. The Council should be proud of this excellent facility, which is a real investment in Hailsham.”
The Vicarage Field public toilets are open:
Monday to Saturday: 8am–4pm
Sunday: 10am–4pm
Members of the public are encouraged to report any damage to the public toilets and other Town Council property as soon as possible so that appropriate action can be taken. By reporting damage promptly, residents can help the Council maintain the facilities to the highest possible standard and minimise disruption to users.
Terry Hall, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk