The official launch of the new lavatories at the Dolphin Shopping Centre took place with members of the management team cutting a ribbon made of toilet paper.

The lavatories are located upstairs in the centre by Wilkos, near to the side exit towards the car park. They are spacious, modern and clean with new facilities to aid those with disabilities, including a ceiling track hoist and a height-adjustable, adult-sized changing bench. As well as the Changing Places facilities, the lavatories also boast separate, larger family rooms with changing facilities and a baby feeding room. All of the sink units offer touch-free technology; dispensing soap, water and hand dryer in one hygienic system.

John Grinnell, centre manager at the Dolphin Shopping Centre, said: “We hope that these new toilets will be appreciated by all of our shoppers at the centre.

“The new Changing Places facilities in particular, are testament to the Dolphin’s commitment to improving accessibility. We want people with disabilities and their carers to have confidence that there are suitable facilities close by whenever they are shopping with us.”

Sharon Moore, administrator at Poole Parent Carer Forum, said: “We are really impressed by the new toilets at the Dolphin Shopping Centre. We care for children and young people with special education needs and disabilities up to the age of 25 years and these are some of the best facilities we have seen in a long time.

“This is a great addition for Poole and something which I can see being very popular amongst disabled shoppers in Poole. Shoppers will need to bring their own sling with them to use the hoist.”

The Dolphin announced a £26 million programme of investment with the owner, Legal & General, last year. Over an 18-month programme, work is being focused on the internal malls and entrances, facilities within the malls, as well as enhancement to the public realm and facades of Falkland Square and upgrading Kingland Crescent. Plans also include bringing further improved retail and dining choices to the centre.