Introduction

Bambers Building Contractors were appointed by Lancashire County Council to deliver a comprehensive refurbishment of four rural public toilet facilities across Lancashire, located at Beacon Fell, Condor Green, Carwags and Crook o Lune.

The project focused on modernising essential community assets, improving accessibility, safety and resilience while ensuring these facilities continue to serve residents and visitors in rural locations where alternative amenities are limited. The works were particularly important in supporting inclusive access to clean, safe and reliable public facilities for families, disabled users and the wider community.

Duration

Start date: 21 October 2024 

Completion date: As of January 2025, three of the four blocks are complete. Due to the confirmed presence of bats within the fourth facility, works will recommence once authorised by Lancashire County Council’s Ecology department.

Project Overview / Scope of Works

The scheme involved the full internal and external refurbishment of four no toilet blocks across the North West. Works included the strip out and renewal of finishes and fittings to create robust, modern and low maintenance facilities suitable for high public use.

Key outcomes included improved energy efficiency through upgraded electrical installations, enhanced comfort through heating improvements, modernised interiors with hard wearing finishes, and accessibility upgrades to ensure safe use for disabled users and families. The works also delivered improved security measures to reduce vandalism and protect the long-term condition of the assets.

Key Improvements Included

· Installation of new hard wearing tiled flooring throughout

· New stainless steel sinks, WC units and urinals to improve durability and hygiene

· Renewal of disabled toilet flooring and doors to improve accessibility and safety

· Installation of new LED lighting to reduce energy consumption

· Energy efficient heaters and hand dryers to improve comfort and reduce running costs

· New security doors to address vandalism and improve asset protection

· Full internal and external redecoration

· Renewal of fascia and soffits

· Improvements to family toilet facilities including baby change provision

Challenges

Delivering works to live public toilet facilities presented several logistical and social challenges. Each block needed to be temporarily closed during refurbishment, requiring the provision and maintenance of temporary toilet facilities to ensure continuity of service for the public.

The rural locations also required careful consideration of the surrounding environment and local wildlife. Ecology assessments were required, with a particular focus on the potential presence of bats. In addition, the project faced unexpected disruption when temporary toilet units were stolen overnight, creating an immediate service risk.

Solutions

Bambers worked closely with Lancashire County Council and its ecology department to ensure compliance with environmental requirements. Operatives received specialist toolbox talks from council ecologists, enabling works to proceed safely and responsibly around protected wildlife.

To support long term performance and value, we proposed the use of Whiterock hygiene boards in place of tiled wall finishes. This solution reduced maintenance requirements, increased durability and delivered cost savings for the client.

We also designed and installed a bespoke baby change facility in place of the originally specified unit, significantly reducing cost and lead time while still meeting functional and accessibility requirements.

Temporary toilet facilities were carefully managed throughout the programme and, following theft, replacement units were rapidly installed to minimise disruption. Phased programming and clear communication allowed works to progress efficiently while maintaining public access wherever possible.

Value Added

For the Community Residents and visitors now benefit from clean, modern and secure toilet facilities that are safer, more accessible and more comfortable to use. Improved lighting, heating and hygiene standards enhance user wellbeing, while family friendly and disabled access improvements ensure inclusivity for all.

For the Client A strong focus on value engineering ensured public funds were used effectively and responsibly. Cost savings were achieved through alternative specifications such as Whiterock hygiene wall systems and bespoke baby change facilities, reducing both upfront costs and long term maintenance requirements.

Enhanced security measures and the use of durable materials, including stainless steel sanitaryware, help protect the assets, reduce vandalism risk and extend lifecycle performance. Energy efficient lighting and heating further reduce operational costs, supporting long term asset management objectives.

The project also delivered wider social value through the use of local suppliers and subcontractors, including Travis Perkins, R&J Hardware, JG Roofing and EAS, helping to support the local economy. In addition, three Bambers apprentices were actively involved in the works, gaining valuable experience on a live local authority project and contributing to skills development within the region.

Total Cost

£190,000.00