Kilmarnock’s Shopmobility service relaunched this week in new premises and with new toilet facilities which are the first of their kind in any bus station in Scotland.
As part of the Kilmarnock bus station refurbishment, the previous station waiting room has been completely repurposed to give Shopmobility improved facilities as well as a Changing Places toilet. This toilet is designed for people with disabilities who need larger, accessible facilities and it comes equipped with a height adjustable changing bench, peninsular toilet, ceiling hoist and space for carers. The toilet will be available for people who register to use it, who will then be given a numbered fob to access the toilets between Monday and Friday from 9am-5pm.
Shopmobility is a free service for anyone with a temporary or permanent disability. People can register to hire scooters for use around the town centre, and manual wheelchairs and walker mobility aids are also available that can be used on a daily hire basis or for holiday hires for up to a maximum of four weeks. A returnable deposit is required for this service.
The Shopmobility service, which will be open from 9am to 3.30pm Tuesday to Friday, accepts donations from service users to help out with the repair and upkeep of the scooters.
Councillor Neal Ingram, East Ayrshire Council Spokesperson for Community Safety, Roads and Transportation, said: “Everyone deserves to have the freedom to enjoy their local communities, without having to worry about whether or not they’re going to be able to access the facilities they need.
“That’s why it’s fantastic to see the Shopmobility service coming back even better than before, with improved facilities and services within the bus station. The new Changing Places toilet is a particular highlight, as it will enable many people to get out and enjoy day-to-day activities that a lot of us take for granted. I wish the relaunched service every success in its new premises.”
