Councillor objects to closure of Eastbourne toilets

Councillor Jane Lamb, of Eastbourne Borough Council, has tabled a motion to block the proposed community toilet scheme, which would involve businesses allowing public access to their facilities.

At a full council meeting, Cllr Lamb said: “I'm one of hundreds who has objected to these proposed closures and the move to a community toilet scheme.

“What we are talking about is a public health issue, an inclusion issue, a tourism issue, and a respect and humanitarian issue. Going to the loo is a basic human right.

“The maintenance costs this council cites as the need for toilet closures are in part due to their long-term failure to invest in our public facilities.

Cllr Jane Lamb (Image: Councillor Jane Lamb) “They are not maintained well enough and have not been kept up to date as many towns have, resulting in outdated and easily vandalised toilets that are expensive to run and clean.

"To propose that people just use businesses' toilets instead will depend entirely on those businesses being open and the goodwill of their owners. Many will, of course, feel pressure to make a purchase, which will hurt our poorest residents the most.

“If we are open to business as a tourist town, then this should be essential for both visitors and residents. People taking a stroll along the seafront shouldn't feel panicked and uncomfortable.

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“Brighton council tried to take similar action a few years ago. They u-turned just a year later and are now investing in their toilets after they found their community toilet scheme didn't work.

“The council needs to rethink these plans, listen to residents, and keep our most important toilets open. We need investment in these crucial facilities so they are fit for purpose and aren't so easily vandalised in the future.

“Residents need to respond to the Council's consultation on these closures and make it clear that this town needs its public conveniences."

A petition has been started to block the proposal, which has to date amassed just under 1,500 signatures.

At a council meeting on September 18, Eastbourne Borough Council leader Councillor Stephen Holt said that any toilets vandalised during the consultation period, which will run until October 31, could be closed.