Perth and Kinross public toilets begin reopening for phase three

Public toilets across Perth and Kinross have begun reopening.

The blocks in Dunkeld and Pitlochry were back in action yesterday.

Others are scheduled to reopen next Friday, to coincide with the beginning of phase three of leaving lockdown.

There will be reduced opening times to allow for thorough cleaning to take place with every site closing an hour earlier than usual.

It follows calls by locals to restore the service following complaints about wild campers leaving human waste at beauty spots across Perthshire.

A Perth and Kinross Council spokesman said: “Our main priority is to ensure facilities are safe for people to use and they will be closed for a short period of time each hour for inspection and to sanitise facilities and maintain a high level of cleanliness.

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It’s another step along the road to Perth and Kinross being open for business. COUNCILLOR JOHN DUFF

“These temporary closures for cleaning are unavoidable, and we apologise in advance for any inconvenience.”

Social distancing will be enforced, meaning users may have to queue outside. Signs will be in place to remind people to wash their hands.

The move was welcomed by Scottish Conservative councillor John Duff who said it was “vital” that facilities are made available as visitors begin to return to popular areas of the county.

“I appreciate that unattended toilets will need additional provisions put in place for cleaning and safety and have been assured that these will all be in place within the next few days,” he said.

“It’s another step along the road to Perth and Kinross being open for business.”

SNP councillor Mike Williamson agreed, adding the move would be “good for businesses”.