Decision details

Cabinet considered a report which had the purpose to develop a strategy to improve access for all to public toilet facilities across the Borough. Members stated that they were pleased to see a Changing Places facility in Beeston, however, it was requested that two benches oppose the facility be relocated in order to preserve the dignity of individuals.

RESOLVED that:

1.               The development of a public toilet strategy based upon options 4 and 5 of “Options considered to improve provision of public toilet facilities” be approved

2.               Sufficient funding is included in future years’ budgets to ensure toilet facilities are fit for purpose.

3.               Adopting the suggestions provided by staff for the upgrading of staff toilet facilities within Council office buildings be approved.

4.               The possibility of siting a new public toilet facility on the ground floor of the Enterprise Hub at Stapleford is explored. The development of this facility will be dependent on the cost and space required. These factors will be known once the architects have drawn up the plans and provided costings.

5.               A programme of publicity to promote locations and opening times of all public facilities across the Borough be approved.

6.               People with a variety of needs are involved in the design and / or refurbishment of public and staff toilet facilities

Reasons

Section 87 The Public Health Act 1936 (as amended) provides that a local authority may provide sanitary conveniences in proper and convenient situations. The provision of public toilets is therefore a discretionary service. The discretion should be exercised reasonably and with a clear, objective rationale, by having a strategy will ensure this is achieved.