Community toilet scheme marks anniversary number 1

Ashford’s community toilet scheme has celebrated its first anniversary.

The scheme, introduced by Ashford Borough Council, works with businesses to provide people with a range of safe and hygienic toilets in the town centre after the closure of the Vicarage Lane car park toilets.

Participating businesses have yellow stickers on their shop fronts to show they are part of the scheme, as well as what facilities are available.

There are 12 businesses involved in the scheme – County Square, Debenhams, Muffin Break, McDonald’s, Stag Coffee, The Little Teapot, The Phoenix, Pizza Express, Paper Duck, the Civic Centre, Ashford Gateway Plus and New Rents, as well as public toilets at Victoria Park.

The public can use the toilets for free and there is no obligation to buy anything.

The toilets are also inspected regularly by council staff to ensure they are up to standard.

An Ashford council spokesman said: “One year on and Ashford’s community toilet scheme is proving successful in providing residents and visitors with a wide range of toilet facilities in and around the town.

“We are delighted that busi- nesses have been supporting the scheme by providing clean and pleasant toilet facilities free of charge for Ashford shoppers, residents and visitors.

“It is also an excellent example of the council’s ongoing commitment to supporting the town centre and its businesses.”

However, disability campaigner Francoise Montford said: “Nobody was consulted and they haven’t given any thought to disabled people, and totally disregarded their needs.

“I would not call the shops accessible, you have to go through the shops or restaurant to get to the facilities. It is designed for the people in there, not for people to come in and use.

“It was also said it would be better because they stay open later but the toilets are open all different hours so you’re never sure which ones you can use and people are struggling to find them.

“The toilets should be reinstated in the Vicarage Lane car park as it’s a long distance to the nearest toilets. If they make the lighting better and put gates to prevent people going in there at night, there would be less trouble.”

What do you think? Write to Kentish Express, Unit 4, Park Mall Shopping Centre Ashford, TN24 8RY or email kentishexpress@ thekmgroup.co.uk

The Little Teapot is one of the participants

The sticker at participating shops and restaurants