Public toilets review progress welcomed

Progress on The Highland Council’s public toilets review was welcomed last week by members of its ruling administration.

Councillor Allan Henderson, chairman of the council’s environment development and infrastructure committee, said it was important to put the review into context and acknowledge the council was the largest provider of public conveniences in the UK. He added: ‘Once the review is complete, we will be able to confirm there is a sustainable network of toilets across the authority area. We will continue to identify further opportunities for public toilets with partners and are optimistic about making positive changes.

‘We are also in discussion with The North Highland Initiative, creators of the North Coast 500, to look at how Highland Council works with partners to create a network of toilets across the route. An extremely helpful outcome of the review has been to map all the toilets provided for locals and visitors.’

Officers from the council’s amenity services have attended ward business meetings, community councils and numerous public meetings over the summer.

As a result of this engagement, a review of the original savings proposal has been undertaken and there will be further talks.

And the council says early indicators are showing opportunities for further partnership working to deliver strategic hubs including toilets, camper van overnight parking with waste disposal services and electric car charging points.

The review is due for completion by the end of October.

With the exception of seasonal toilets that normally close on September 30, all Highland Council toilets will remain open until October 31.