Odeon Cinemas Group, the largest cinema chain in the UK and Ireland, has upgraded its Milton Keynes venue with a new Changing Places toilet, designed to meet the needs of customers with complex disabilities. Previously, the venue’s disabled toilets lacked essential equipment like hoists and height-adjustable wash basins, prompting the need for a more inclusive facility.
Innova Care Concepts was enlisted to design and install the new Changing Places facility. The project involved converting a former store cupboard into a spacious, compliant bathroom, equipped with an AirRise 200 hoist system, a height-adjustable changing bench, and privacy screens. Challenges included minimizing disruption to cinema operations, managing unexpected structural issues, and relocating an ice cream stall to accommodate the new entrance. These hurdles were overcome by scheduling construction work at night and engineering solutions for structural complications.
The successful installation ensures that Odeon Milton Keynes is now more accessible, providing a fully equipped Changing Places toilet that enhances the cinema experience for all customers.
“Kudos to ODEON Cinemas Group Milton Keynes for having a Changing Places facility. As a severely disabled person with a decent disposable income from my employment, I can confidently go to the cinema and if the need arrives, enjoy a moment on the pan.”
Accessibility Manager – Ross Hovey