£500,000 to 'significantly upgrade' public toilets on key travel routes across Powys

The Welsh Government grant – awarded to Powys County Council – will enable the refurbishment of toilets across Knighton, Llandrindod Wells, Llanwrtyd Wells and Rhayader. 

Improvements will be made to six public facilities in total, with Llandrindod Wells also expected to become the first town in Mid Wales to offer a changing places toilet alongside individual cubicles.

Toilets at Llandrindod Lake and at the railway station, at Dark Lane and Cwmdauddwr in Rhayader, and Knighton and Llanwrtyd will all be improved.

This means families, residents, tourists and commuters between North and South Wales with severe disabilities will, for the first time, be able to explore the area knowing they can rely on a fully-accessible, welcoming facility that meets their needs.

Elsewhere, all sites will see disabled facilities improved and redecorated while baby changing stations, where not currently available, will be added.

Modernisation plans include efforts to install solar PV panels where possible, to help reduce energy costs – with water harvesting systems also added to ensure the facilities are more self-sustainable.

This year is the Year of Croeso – or ‘welcome’ – for Visit Wales which aims to celebrate the distinct and varied ways in which people from across the UK and the world can feel welcomed when they holiday in Wales.

Welsh Government cabinet secretary for economy, energy and planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “We love to welcome visitors to Wales, with our promise of amazing scenery and experiences. But we also know that getting the basics right is essential, which is why these improvements are so important.

“Quality infrastructure such as public toilets are vital for accessibility and are essential for allowing us to extend our warm, Welsh welcome to everyone.

Powys County Council's Councillor Jackie Charlton, cabinet member for a Greener Powys, and Councillor James Gibson-Watt, cabinet member for a More Prosperous Powys, said: “This funding is extremely welcome. We know how important it is for public conveniences to be reliable, accessible and welcoming. This investment will help ensure these toilets are truly fit for purpose and meet the future needs of our communities and visitors to our beautiful county.

“This funding was secured through the budget deal between the Welsh Government and Jane Dodds, leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, and the works are expected to be complete by the end of March 2026.”