Gosford Forest Park near Markethill has been recognised as having Northern Ireland’s Best Changing Places Toilet in 2026, bringing a major accessibility award to one of the area’s popular visitor attractions.
The award was announced on October 1, 2026, by ABC Council. It was presented by the Changing Places Toilet Consortium in recognition of the facility’s contribution to improving access for visitors to the forest park.
Facility recognised for accessibility
The Changing Places toilet is designed for disabled people and their carers. Unlike a standard accessible toilet, it provides additional space for wheelchair users to manoeuvre and can accommodate up to two carers.
The facility is described as a hygienic, safe and comfortable amenity. Its recognition reflects the role it plays in making Gosford Forest Park more inclusive for people who need additional space and support when using toilet facilities.
Lord Mayor of ABC Borough, Councillor Mary O’Dowd, was pictured with Karen Oliver, manager at Gosford Forest Park, and the award. Councillor O’Dowd said the facility made Gosford more inclusive and accessible, and thanked council officers responsible for maintaining it.
“This brilliant amenity makes Gosford more inclusive and accessible for everyone who visits. I would like to thank our council officers who look after the Changing Places Toilet and ensure that this facility is maintained to the highest standard as a vital and valued asset to our park.”
Part of wider ABC investment
The Gosford facility is one of two modular Changing Places toilets opened by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in 2022. The second facility is at Lurgan Park.
The facilities were funded through the Access and Inclusion Programme from the Department of Communities. The investment was intended to improve access at public parks and visitor destinations across the borough.
How visitors can access the toilet
Visitors need a RADAR key to use the Changing Places toilets. Disabled people living in the ABC Borough can obtain one, and the key also provides access to public toilets across the UK fitted with a corresponding RADAR lock.
The lock system is intended to help protect the facilities from vandalism or misuse while ensuring they are available to people who need them.
RADAR keys are available from the Council Depot in Armagh, the Civic Building in Banbridge and the Civic Centre in Craigavon. Further information is available through the council’s Inclusive ABC information service.