Bats, swifts, bees.. and squat toilets

It’s been an interesting few days. Last Monday I was with the King to commemorate the seventy-fifth anniversary of Cambridge becoming a City, and this Monday I was at the opening of the new public toilets on Silver Street. In between there have been a lot of meetings and calls.

I am really pleased that the refurbished toilets are finally open, because the old toilets here were in a very poor condition and really unsuitable for such a busy site where lots of visitors to Cambridge pass by every day.

Accessibility, safety, and inclusivity sit right at the heart of the new design. We wanted to make sure that everyone felt welcome, so underground we have separate women’s and men’s facilities with a universal toilet situated between them.  

Both the women’s and men’s sections feature Cambridge’s first squat toilets in a public loo. They aren’t the only squat toilets in Cambridge, as there are some at Cambridge Central Mosque, but there are a thoughtful step forward in catering to international visitors and local residents alike.  

Above ground, a large universal accessible toilet has been provided that also incorporates comprehensive baby-changing facilities. The integrated help points, clear layout, and carefully considered management arrangements will help ensure a welcoming and safe environment for all users.

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Cambridge has been a City for 75 years

On Monday July 20th King Charles visited Cambridge and unveiled a plaque to commemorate seventy-five years since we were granted City status. It was a very special occasion, and I was really pleased to be there as Leader of the City Council, accompanied by Cllr Gerri Bird.

The King visited the Cambridge Central Mosque on Mill Road for the unveiling, and it was good too see the press coverage focusing on the building’s eco credentials which heat pumps, solar panels and the collection of spare water from bathroom sinks and rainfall.

It was also an important moment for His Majesty to reaffirm the diversity of Cambridge and our support for those of all faiths and none, at a time when so many people seek to divide us.

The photograph shows me with King Charles, and Julie Spence, Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire. It was taken by Shahida Raman.

Read more about the day on the Cambridge City Council website.