Rural Facilities Refurbishment
Our Work
Rural Facilities
Project Summary
- Start date: October 2024
- Completion date: January 2025
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.
Project Overview
Modernising Essential Rural Community Facilities
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.
Project Details
Property Type
Public Toilet Facilities (Rural Community Assets)
Client
Lancashire County Council
Scope
Full internal and external refurbishment of four toilet blocks
Occupancy
Public / Community Use
Challenges
Overcoming Challenges
- Delivering works to live public toilet facilities required temporary closures and the provision of alternative facilities
- Managing continuity of service for the public during refurbishment works
- Working within rural environments with ecological considerations, including the presence of bats
- Unexpected disruption caused by the theft of temporary toilet units
Solutions
How We Delivered
- Close collaboration with Lancashire County Council and its ecology department to ensure environmental compliance
- Specialist toolbox talks delivered by council ecologists to support safe working around protected wildlife
- Introduction of Whiterock hygiene boards to reduce maintenance and improve durability
- Design and installation of a bespoke baby change facility to reduce cost and lead time
- Rapid replacement of stolen temporary toilet units to minimise disruption
- Phased programming and clear communication to maintain public access wherever possible
Durable Finishes & Materials
Installation of new hard wearing tiled flooring throughout Full internal and external redecoration Renewal of fascia and soffits
Upgraded Sanitaryware
New stainless steel sinks, WC units and urinals to improve durability and hygiene
Accessibility Enhancements
Renewal of disabled toilet flooring and doors to improve accessibility and safety Improvements to family toilet facilities including baby change provision
Energy Efficiency Improvements
Installation of new LED lighting to reduce energy consumption Energy efficient heaters and hand dryers to improve comfort and reduce running costs
Security Upgrades
New security doors to address vandalism and improve asset protection
Modernisation of Facilities
Strip out and renewal of finishes and fittings to create robust, modern and low maintenance facilities
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.
Social Value
This project delivered meaningful social value by improving the overall experience of public spaces within rural Lancashire, supporting tourism, encouraging outdoor activity and enhancing the usability of key visitor locations. By upgrading these facilities, the scheme contributes to healthier, more inclusive communities, enabling people of all ages and abilities to confidently access and enjoy local environments. The works also reinforced Bambers’ commitment to responsible delivery, ensuring minimal disruption to surrounding areas while maintaining a high standard of workmanship that benefits both current users and future generations.
Total Cost
£190,000.00
4 Months
Duration
£190,000
Total Cost
Lancashire
Location
Closed
During Works
Before Gallery
After Gallery
