WORK has now started on new changing room facilities in the Catshill Village Meadow.

Inadequate changing and washing facilities will now be demolished to make way for a pod-based, comfortable, modern changing area with a toilet suitable for people with disabilities.

The site in Bromsgrove is a three-and-a-half acre grassland open to the general public, and includes a football pitch, changing rooms, a play area with swings, a car park, a stream and a perimeter path.

Ian Prust, chairman of the North West Ward Association, which received the grant, said: “These improvements will increase usage of our facilities. They will enable people with physical disabilities to take part in the wide range of events and activities that are held on the meadow. We cannot wait for work to be complete.”

The executive director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, Paul Taylor, added: “We support community and environmental projects across the UK and it is always great to hear when one is starting. The improved facilities will open up opportunities for exercise and socialising for the community of Bromsgrove. I look forward to seeing the completed results.”

Funding for the project came from a £50,000 grant from Sport England, £30,000 from The Veolia Environmental Trust, West Mercia Police awarded £3,000 and Worcestershire County Council gave £1,000.

There will also be a catering area and storage space.

Funding for the work was led by the Meadow’s Charity, The North West Ward Association (NWWA) which conducted surveys with local residents and sports teams that use the meadow’s facilities and received feedback that indicated that the changing rooms and catering facilities were insufficient.

Plans for the project were developed after the Parish Plan was drawn up in 2011.

Work is expected to be complete by the end of the month.