Opposition to loo

Proposals for a lavatory at Stirling’s Low Back Walk, off Dumbarton Road, met with opposition, the Observer of April 1929 reported.

Councillors considered a number of sites but dismissed a suggestion that the toilet for both men and women should be placed near the Low Back Walk, close to Albert Halls, and opted for a site at the corner of the Back Walk, adjoining Rock Terrace. The cost was estimated at £650, equivalent to almost £44,000 today. However, residents living near the site of the proposed loo, were unhappy. Solicitor Mr Andrew Buchanan appeared before councillors on behalf of Miss Crockart and Mrs Rutherford who owned the property known as Rock Terrace, and also Mrs Haxton who owned the adjoining property.

He said the lavatory would be within a few yards of the entrance of Miss Crockart’s property and would diminish the value of her house.

The solicitor said there were also fears the proposed loo would make it more difficult for the property owner to find tenants and even posed a health risk for people living in the area.

Cleaning committee convener Judge Mcintosh moved the development should go ahead. He said apart from ‘mock sentiment’ there were no valid objection to the plan. However, councillors agreed to consider the matter further before making a final decision.