leading manufacturer

WASHROOM REVIVAL

Posted on May 14, 2025

Elevating Toilet, Shower & Washroom Facilities on your site...

As UK holidaymakers continue to prioritise comfort, cleanliness, and eco-consciousness during their travels, the humble washroom has emerged as a key player in shaping guest satisfaction.

For owners and managers of holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites and glamping sites, upgrading toilet, shower, and washroom facilities is no longer a luxury – it’s an essential component of modern hospitality.

With new innovations in design, functionality, and sustainability, there’s never been a better time to invest in next-generation facilities.

BILLING AQUA DROME supplied and fitted by Total Cubicles.

WHAT GUESTS EXPECT IN 2025
Today’s Park guests seek facilities that are not just functional, but pleasant and hygienic. The days of draughty, dimly lit, and poorly ventilated toilet blocks are long gone. Visitors now expect washrooms to reflect the same quality they enjoy at home – if not better.

This shift has seen a boom in the popularity of cubicle systems that are durable, waterproof, hygienic, and visually appealing. Total Cubicle Solutions, a leading manufacturer and supplier in this space, is helping transform tired facilities into bright, modern, and stylish spaces.

Their cubicles, lockers and vanity units have enhanced sites like Park Holidays Ltd’s Sand Le Mere and Par Sands parks, and Billing Aqua Drome’s outdoor shower units, setting the bar for premium site amenities. “Our systems are built not only for durability and hygiene but also to help operators inject real style and identity into their washroom areas,” says a spokesperson from Total Cubicle Solutions.

“Each cubicle is customisable, making it easy to match existing branding and elevate the entire guest experience.” With high footfall throughout peak seasons, easy maintenance and longevity are just as important as aesthetics. Solid-grade laminate options provide a long-lasting, vandal-resistant solution that remains easy to clean and resilient in all weather conditions.

SAND LE MERE SINK and basin
supplied and fitted by Total Cubicles.

TACKLING THE WATER CRISIS HEAD-ON
Another major consideration for park operators is sustainability – particularly water conservation. With the UK facing mounting pressure on water resources, efficiency is now critical. One company at the forefront of water-saving technology is Cistermiser, which has welcomed Ofwat’s new £100 million Water Efficiency Fund as a pivotal move towards sustainable progress.

“We strongly support the fund and its potential to drive meaningful reductions in water usage,” says Richard Braid, Managing Director of Cistermiser. “But innovation doesn’t have to be complex. Our infrared urinal controls and sensor-activated WC dual flush systems are smart, effective, and proven to deliver real savings.”

Cistermiser’s EasyflushEVO, a leak-proof siphonic dual flush valve, is a standout example of this innovation. By eliminating below-waterline seals prone to wear and scale build-up, it provides a reliable solution to the UK’s 1.5 million estimated leaky toilets – each potentially wasting up to 400 litres of water a day.

Such technologies don’t just help holiday park operators cut water bills; they also ensure compliance with growing sustainability regulations. As the hospitality industry evolves to meet eco-friendly targets, adopting efficient washroom systems has become both a financial and environmental imperative.

The days of draughty, dimly lit, and poorly ventilated toilet blocks are long gone.

AWARD-WINNING STANDARDS IN GUEST FACILITIES
Holiday parks that go the extra mile in their washroom facilities are gaining recognition, too. The Loo of the Year Awards continues to celebrate the best in British washrooms, including caravan and camping sites.

The 2024 awards, held at the National Motorcycle Museum, honoured Bryndu Caravan Park’s Eva Tamaz-Szora as the UK’s top washroom technician. Her win underscores the importance of dedicated maintenance and high standards in ensuring exceptional guest experiences.

Becky Wall BEM, organiser of the awards, highlighted the broader impact: “Toilets and washrooms are an essential part of customer service. Celebrating those who prioritise cleanliness, accessibility, and care shines a light on what modern guests truly value.”

The awards’ rigorous 101-point grading system covers everything from signage and accessibility to hygiene and decor, inspiring operators to keep pushing standards higher.

WATER BILLS on the rise advise Cistermiser.

FUNCTION MEETS FLAIR
Washroom design is undergoing a renaissance. Whether it’s stylish vanity units, nature-inspired interiors, or enhanced lighting schemes, design is being used to both impress and serve.

Seamless surfaces, sensor taps, and contactless flushing all support hygiene while elevating the visual and tactile guest experience. Operators are now also investing in private shower pods, family-friendly washroom suites, and even accessible Changing Places facilities to accommodate visitors with complex needs.

The latter, championed by Martin Jackaman – recent recipient of the Loo of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award – are rapidly expanding across the UK, ensuring inclusivity for all.

DESIGN AND PRACTICALITY in abundance for this outstanding facility at Flamingo Land.

INVEST TO IMPRESS
Ultimately, upgrading washroom facilities isn’t just about style or environmental responsibility – it’s about guest retention and reputation. In a world where online reviews can make or break a destination, providing clean, modern, and well-managed washrooms is a business essential.

For those managing campsites, holiday parks, or glamping getaways, these upgrades can lead to happier guests, better reviews, and stronger bookings season after season.

With support from forward-thinking suppliers like Cistermiser and Total Cubicle Solutions, and the visibility offered by initiatives like the Loo of the Year Awards, there’s never been a better time for park owners to raise the bar.

Cistermiser
0118 969 1611
www.cistermiser.co.uk

Total Cubicle Solutions
0151 298 1509
www.totalcubicles.co.uk

Loo of the Year Awards
01531 640715
www.loo.co.uk

THREE DECADES OF DEDICATED SERVICE

Posted on October 25, 2023

THREE DECADES OF DEDICATED SERVICE

RKUBOTA HAS BEEN THE SUPPLIER of choice for Deighan’s Caravan Park for the past three decades.

2023 is a special year for Deighan’s Caravan Park, as the family-run business celebrate 30 years since the doors first opened on the five-star resort close to Benone, Northern Ireland. Their first mower – installed by local dealers D.A.Forgie - was a Kubota and three decades on, it remains Kubota at the heart of site maintenance, with a fleet of Kubota F-Series mowers ensuring a picture-postcard start to every holiday.

Deighan’s currently has four mowers, including an F3890 and F391 from Kubota’s F-Series. The F3890 sets the benchmark for the out-front mower market, featuring a 38hp 4-cylinder engine that delivers unbeatable productivity and impeccable cut quality. The F391 further enhances the F Series’ position as the professional’s choice for parks, open spaces and local authorities with a high output, maximum comfort philosophy.

The newer, stage-V compliant model also offers power steering and an adjustable out-front deck making the F391 highly manoeuvrable. Together with an RTV-X1110 used to transport the team around the site, the latest delivery was a Kubota M4063 tractor, fitted with turf tyres, installed in December 2021.

Kubota has been a leading manufacturer of agricultural equipment, construction equipment, lawn mowers and industrial engines since 1890. With its global headquarters in Osaka, Japan, offices in more than 120 countries and more than 41,000 employees in North America, Europe and Asia, Kubota had a turnover of $20 billion in 2021.

Kubota
Tel. 07866 810794
E. rob.edwards@kubota.com
www.kubota-global.net

KUBOTA INVESTS IN GROUNDCARE

Posted on August 3, 2023

KUBOTA INVESTS IN GROUNDCARE

THE KUBOTA UK TEAM showed off the company’s latest products at a recent special event.

Media spanning sports turf, landscaping, amenity and equine were recently given a rare insight into the ‘behind the scenes’ workings of one of the most recognisable brands in groundcare, as Kubota UK opened their doors for a special event. The overarching theme of the two days was Kubota’s ongoing investment into the industry with updates on recent acquisitions and new initiatives in the areas of warranty and recruitment.

Kubota has been a leading manufacturer of agricultural equipment, construction equipment, lawn mowers and industrial engines since 1890. With its global headquarters in Osaka, Japan, offices in more than 120 countries and more than 41,000 employees in North America, Europe and Asia, Kubota had a turnover of $20 billion in 2021.

Although agricultural, construction and turf equipment are its main product lines, Kubota also produces a wide range of products such as city water purification systems, irrigation systems, piping systems, roof and home construction, and large underground valves.

Commenting on the event, Kubota UK Marketing Manager Rob Edwards said: “We, like all manufacturers, are aware of the issues facing the industry and that doesn’t just stop at having the right products to fit today’s market. “It was brilliant to be able to demonstrate to the press the programmes we’re delivering to support our dealers and our customers and show how proud we are to be re-investing in the needs of the next generation.”

The presentations concluded with a ‘ride and drive’ experience where Press representatives had the opportunity to test-drive a number of machines from across the range, including the recently-launched FC3 and FC4 mowers, and the LXe – Kubota’s first electric compact tractor, in the UK currently for extensive testing.

THE FUN FACTOR

Posted on August 2, 2023

THE FUN FACTOR

Play remains an integral part of the holiday offering...

POST PANDEMIC, there appears to be a strong demand for parents to allow children the freedom to play outdoors in the fresh air. Pic. Proludic

Independently commissioned research - by leading outdoor play and sport provider Proludic, has shown that the public is as keen as ever to see high-quality outdoor play areas at holiday destinations across the UK. The results showed a relationship between the availability of play facilities and time spent at leisure venues. There is a clear desire to see play as an integral part of the offering.

Over half (51%) of the respondents said play areas were an important consideration for them when visiting a holiday park, or visitor attraction. A significant 41% said they were more likely to book a UK holiday park vacation if they had made good provisions for children’s play. The majority (65%) said keeping children entertained in a good play space at all visitor and leisure attractions was important to them.

Post pandemic, there appears to be a strong demand for parents to allow children the freedom to play outdoors in the fresh air, particularly as they have recently spent many months indoors. Playing outdoors has many benefits but particularly improves mental health, fitness and boosts vitamin D levels.

Proludic’s history in play began in 1985 with a range of play equipment constructed from timber. Back then the focus was to capture the elements of nature incorporating tree houses to play in, logs to balance along and trunks to climb up.

PROLUDIC, has shown that the public is as keen as ever to see high-quality outdoor play areas.

DESIGN INFLUENCES
Nature is ever present in Proludic’s history influencing designs and creating wonderful play opportunities for children in the play areas that the company has built over the last three decades. Nature has an abundance of play resources for children and is an ideal setting for adventure and discovery. The unstructured activities provided by nature stimulate physical activity, imagination, creativity, motor skills and cognitive development.

The use of natural materials in the construction of playground equipment brings nature into the play space and can offer an ideal backdrop within holiday destination venues and at leisure attractions. With this in mind, Proludic’s Origin’ range, launched in 2013, was designed to provide children with a secure environment to learn and develop through exploring nature’s play activities.

Balance trails, swings, springers, roundabouts and role-play items offer individual play opportunities to support movement development. A range of multiplay units has limitless combinations. Triangular towers with different floors, heights, ladders, climbing, ramps, fixed, and mobile, bridges, tunnels, vertical nuts, climbing walls, slides and Fireman’s poles.

All of these elements, make for original tailor-made play combinations. Known for its durability and resistance in outdoor environments to insects, fungus and inclement weather, Robinia guarantees the longevity of playground facilities. Rotproof and stable over time, it can be installed in the ground without the need for chemical treatments.

The Robinia used for the Origin range is PEFC-certified, which means it comes from sustainably managed European forests. Due to the expertise and skill of Proludic team members who have worked within the forestry industry, the company has recently extended the standard Origin’ range to include larger structures based on three themes - Medieval Legends and Tales, Adventures in Nature and Sealife Scenes.

COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS
Wicksteed is the leading manufacturer of outdoor playground equipment in the UK. The company boasts a longstanding history and heritage within the playground sector, developing trusted relationships with schools, councils, holiday parks and housing developers for more than 100 years. Working in partnership is a key ingredient for Wicksteed projects.

For instance, Pensnett Coppice has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to the dedicated collaboration between Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, Friends of the Coppice, and Wicksteed Leisure. This rejuvenation project not only brought life back to the once-empty site but also created a vibrant and engaging playground that seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings.

With Wicksteed Leisure’s unwavering commitment to safety, children can now explore and play with peace of mind. The newly installed play equipment, in vibrant yellows and greens, stands as a beacon of joy amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings. Wicksteed Leisure’s expertise in design and playability ensured that the equipment seamlessly integrated into the environment while capturing attention from afar.

Every element was carefully selected to provide a diverse range of engaging options, offering endless hours of entertainment for children of all ages and abilities. Harmony with the natural environment was a paramount consideration in the playground’s design.

To preserve the rural charm of Pensnett Coppice, the play area features Notts Sport synthetic carpet surfacing. This durable and robust surface not only enhances safety but also blends harmoniously with the picturesque surroundings. The transformed playground has been embraced wholeheartedly by the local community.

PLAYING OUTDOORS HAS MANY BENEFITS but particularly improves mental health, fitness and boosts vitamin D levels. Pic. HAGS

HIGH ROPES
Following significant investment, SF Parks has launched a much-anticipated high ropes course at its White House Leisure Park in Towyn, Wales. This latest addition to the park will be followed by an upgrade to Jakes family restaurant and pub, an amusement arcade, a cinema room, and soft play, complementing existing facilities including a crazy golf course and food and drinks outlets.

And it comes as the family-owned business awaits planning permission for another adrenaline-fuelled activity – The Jump – where customers can leap from a three or six-foot platform onto a giant airbag. SF Parks, which also owns Golden Gate in Towyn, Riverside and Sun Valley in Rhuddlan, and Sirior Bach in Moelfre, Abergele, has big plans for the future. Director Jonathan Seldon says these exciting developments are just the start.

“The response to the high ropes course and all of our plans has been really positive, so we thank everyone for their support,” he said. “Our loyal customers are always top priority and enhancing their experience is paramount, which is why we will continue to make improvements and introduce more exhilarating and engaging attractions across the SF Parks portfolio.”

Fellow director Oliver Seldon reinforced those comments and revealed their overall vision will lead to more developments in the months ahead. “This new attraction and The Jump – should we receive the green light next month – show how committed we are to our customers and also the local economy, supporting small businesses and creating full-time and seasonal jobs,” he said. “We will continue to improve standards, embrace innovation and keep investing in all of our parks as that will have a lasting impact not just on SF Parks but the region’s tourism sector.”

WICKSTEED FIRE THE IMAGINATION with outstanding holiday park installations.

ADVENTURE PLAY
If you are looking for more examples of holiday stay and play options, then look no further than Blenheim Palace that offers vacations in partnership with Darwin Escapes. A new £3.6 million outdoor play experience at Blenheim, has been carefully designed and created to ensure children of all abilities from the ages of 2-12 are able to explore and enjoy the extensive play areas.

Adventure Play is a series of immersive interconnecting zones with secret chambers, clamber nets, tunnels, slides, rope bridges - and giant carrots! Covering a site larger than a football pitch, it celebrates the rich heritage of the 18th century baroque Palace, inspired by real-life features including the lakeside Boat House and Hensington Gateway.

Unfortunately, the days when children played out on the street all day are long gone. For many children today – especially families without gardens – outdoor play only happens on holidays.

The onus is therefore on holiday park owners and operators to ensure the play facilities they offer are the best they can be. The key message is invest in outdoor play and you will be rewarded with happy families who are much more likely to return to your park – and tell their friends about it.

COMPANY CONTACTS

Blenheim Palace
www.blenheimpalace.com/adventure-play/

Proludic
Tel. 0115 982 3980
www.proludic.co.uk

SF Parks
01745 833048
www.sfparks.co.uk

Technical Outdoor Solutions
Tel. 01768 840 300
www. technicaloutdoorsolutions.co.uk

Wicksteed
Tel. 01536 517028
www.wicksteed.co.uk