North Yorkshire Council is set to consider a new strategy for its public toilet network, which could see a standard entry fee of 40p or 50p introduced alongside a major modernisation programme.
A practical plan setting out how modern, reliable and cost-effective public toilet facilities could be delivered across North Yorkshire is set to be presented to councillors.
On the 21st of April, members of North Yorkshire Council’s executive will be asked to consider the findings of a cross-party working group which has investigated how the service can be run.
The network in North Yorkshire is the largest of its kind in the UK, boasting 93 amenities across the county. However, the council has stated that a lack of investment prior to local government reorganisation in 2023 meant the authority inherited a patchwork of facilities, with a number in poor condition and no longer fit for purpose.
Currently, 65 of the sites are free to use. Nearly 90 per cent of the service’s income is generated from sites where fees have remained unchanged for almost two decades.
To ensure the network operates on a sustainable financial basis, the working group has recommended setting a consistent entry fee of either 40p or 50p per user across the county, where practical.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for managing our environment, Councillor Richard Foster, said:
"We have inherited a mixed and often ageing estate of public toilets, a number of which have fallen into poor condition after years of under investment.
A major improvement programme is required that would commit us to bringing these essential facilities up to a consistently high standard across the county.
If agreed, once refurbished, we will seek to introduce charges to ensure they can be properly maintained, kept clean and remain open for residents and visitors long into the future."
The proposals include a commitment to a capital improvement programme, aiming to ensure all sites achieve a ‘good’ or ‘excellent’ condition rating by 2030.
According to a report prepared for the executive, the capital investment required to bring the entire network up to this standard is estimated to exceed £3 million. The council notes this figure will continue to grow as other sites deteriorate and detailed condition surveys are completed.
To begin delivering these findings, a capital allocation of £177,000 is proposed to be set aside from the council's Strategic Capacity Reserve. This initial investment would expand the range of sites that levy a charge and trial alternative donation points.
Planned enhancements feature water bottle refill stations, baby changing facilities, and sanitary waste disposal options in both male and female spaces. Environmental initiatives such as greywater recycling and renewable energy generation are also proposed to support the council’s ambition to achieve net-zero carbon neutrality.
Where facilities are in poor condition, have low usage, or are located near alternative conveniences, the council will consider rationalisation. Parish and Town Councils will be offered the opportunity to operate these sites under an enhanced support package before any closures are implemented.
Chair of the working group on public conveniences, Councillor David Staveley, said:
"Our priority is to make sure our public toilets are reliable, good quality and financially sustainable.
People want modern facilities and a service they can depend on. The recommendations allow us to deliver the right facilities, in the right way, and within available funding.
The group accepted that some poorly used or rundown sites may need to be disposed of but says the process should be open and involve local communities.
We know how important public toilets are for residents, visitors and businesses. These proposals set out a sensible, long term plan to protect and improve the service, so it remains fit for the future."
Another key principle involves integrating public conveniences with car park operations. High-quality toilet facilities located within or close to chargeable car parks could see their revenue costs funded through overall car park tariff income.
Free access for disabled users will continue to be offered through the National RADAR key scheme, and the council seeks to maintain and expand Changing Places provision for people with profound disabilities.
Paying tribute to the cross-party collaboration on the project, Councillor Foster added:
"It’s a testament to the shared dedication across all political groups that, on an issue as sensitive as public toilet provision, members have come together with a common purpose.
Improving these essential facilities is about access and support for every community in North Yorkshire. I’m grateful for the collaboration that’s allowed us to make real progress on something that truly matters to local people."
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