The first-class public facilities include a state-of-the-art Changing Places toilet, suitable for people with profound and multiple disabilities. intu Watford has invested in creating this bespoke area having listened to its customers and understood the need for such specialist equipment.

Sheri Skelton, who lives in Watford, has been campaigning for years for more venues to provide Changing Places facilities. Sheri’s son, Owen, is six years old and has Cerebral Palsy, she knows the difficulties parents and individuals face. She praised intu Watford saying:

"We are so happy that intu Watford now has a Changing Places toilet, without Changing Places our world shrinks as my son grows. This facility means that our family and thousands of others now feel even more welcome and included at the centre. We will now be able to spend a whole day doing activities like shopping and bowling knowing that our son’s toileting needs will be met safely and with dignity."

“We are absolutely delighted that Sheri and Owen agreed to open the Changing Places toilet,” said Vicki Costello, general manager at intu Watford. “Through our research and from talking with parents and organisations about the daily difficulties and challenges they come across when in public, we realised how important it was to build these facilities.”

The Changing Places toilet includes a hoist, a shower, an adjustable sink and changing bench suitable to hold the weight of an adult, to ensure all its shoppers can enjoy a relaxed and comfortable experience.

Vicki adds: “We are pleased to have them ready and open in time for the launch of the first phase of our new development, which starts on Thursday 27 September and sees Debenhams open its doors for the first time.”

The anticipated line-up for the £180 million development includes 13 new retailers, 11 new restaurants and leisure facilities. Superdry, H&M, Jack Wills, New Look, The Florist, TGI Friday, Las Iguanas, and YO! Sushi, will all be brand new to Watford. A new public square will also be home to fun community events including street art and music shows.

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