Freestanding tap replacement

[carling_mascot]

Hi all, our plumbers installed a freestanding bath tap when we built our house around 10 years ago. I would now like to replace the tap but upon undoing the tap footings I have found the hot/cold water hoses go under the floor with no access (or enough play) to disconnect them. They go into the base of the tap with no connectors visible there either. The tap does have a join just under the tap handles (as pictured) but I cannot unscrew or budge this. Will I have to cut a larger opening in my floor, or is there a way to split the tap and use the existing hoses? I appreciate any help, thank you!

 

[Exedon]

They are the work of the devil.
Usually connected up before floor finished, when replacing
We have cut access in ceiling below sometimes making good other time's leaving a access panel.

 

[carling_mascot]

Ok thank you - I may hold off on replacing the tap then.
The notch that diverts the water to the shower head doesn't hold that well anymore but not sure it's worth cutting a hole in my ceiling, I'll try and convince the Mrs to live with it!!