How convenient! Cafe plan for park’s toilets
PUBLIC toilets in one of Cardiff’s oldest parks could become a cafe.
The Grade II-listed building in Thompson’s Park is up for lease, and the South Wales Echo understands an “established” cafe already in the city has put in a bid.
The former rangers’ hut is at the entrance to the park on Romilly Road and could be transformed into a cafe subject to planning.
If the plan comes to the fruition, it would become the latest public convenience block in the city to be transformed.
The hut is split into two sections – the former office and kitchen, and the male and female toilets.
Matthew Jones, associate director at Fletcher Morgan, the estate agents advertising the property, said: “It is under offer by an established Cardiff cafe.
“The reason they want to take it on is because it’s a great spot, and it will be a great benefit to the community.”
Fletcher Morgan said the tenure is available by way of a “new full repair and insuring lease”.
The quoted rent for the property, which measures just under 30 square metres, is £10,000 per annum.
If the public loos in Thompson’s Park do become a cafe, they would overlook the famous statue of a boy by William Gosper John called Joyance.
As well as the statue, the park has a flower garden and pond.
Labour councillor for the Canton ward Stephen Cunnah welcomed news the toilets may continue to benefit the public, albeit in a new way.
“The council has had to cut its cloth quite tightly and every year we have lost public conveniences because we have had no choice,” he said.
“So the idea that we could make a modest amount of money while keeping it for the public benefit as a cafe – I’m sure local residents will appreciate that.”
Cllr Cunnah pointed out that a similar plan to lease a former toilet block in Victoria Park to a cafe has been largely successful.
“They have transformed it and have quite a loyal local following,” he said.
“I think it has been great for Victoria Park so if it’s a good cafe – which it will be I’m sure – it will be a great addition to the area.”