A PROPOSED new extension to Malvern Theatres will have the area's first Changing Places public toilet, a move aimed at increasing public accessibility to the arts complex.

Last week, Malvern Hills District Council granted planning permission for the extension, which provides space for a new rehearsal studio space and offices at the complex on Grange Road.

The studio will allow Malvern Theatres to improve and expand its education and community programme, providing life changing participation opportunities for people of all ages and abilities in its community.

The build will be the first major construction for the theatre since its Lottery-funded transformation 21 years ago, which secured the theatre’s place as one of the country’s leading regional venues.

The Changing Places facility, the first in the district is for people who cannot use standard toilets and who require the assistance of a height adjustable changing bench and a hoist.

Chief executive Nic Lloyd said: “We are delighted with this planning decision and are excited for what it means for the future of the theatre.

“Malvern Theatres is the lifeblood of the town and this extension will help ensure that everyone in our community, no matter what age or ability, can engage with the arts in a meaningful way.

“Over a quarter of a million people need Changing Places toilets to enable them to enjoy the everyday activities that many of us take for granted. This facility will not only allow more people to use the theatre with confidence, but visitors can also better experience everything else Malvern has to offer.”

Malvern Theatres’ current participation classes, such as dance for the over-55s and creative arts for people with disabilities, are oversubscribed and often have to be held in public spaces including the bar, working around the performance schedule.

The studio will allow the theatre to do more and different classes and workshops at different times of day, including evenings.

The studio will be fully accessible so people of all abilities can use it comfortably. It will also serve as a rehearsal space for the theatre's own young company and visiting professional companies.