Conversion to be welcomed

As a resident of Pulpit Hill, close to the viewpoint, I should like to offer my support to the proposed conversion of the public toilets.

Currently the toilets are closed and have been for several years despite being lit 24/7 at the council’s expense. The disused building has become an eyesore and the immediate surrounding area a mud and litter trap. Two pods and a usable public toilet would be a visual improvement. In addition the council would be earning a rent.

The author of the letter in your edition dated February 17 expresses concerns about the behaviour of potential renters. Will they bring takeaways of food and alcohol and use the benches? Very probably they will sit on the benches and take in the view while enjoying the food from our local establishments, but a local by-law will prevent the consumption of alcohol there. Where will they dump their rubbish? I should imagine in bins provided by and emptied by the council.

Can the council guarantee there will be no noise, littering or antisocial behaviour? No, but neither can they guarantee that of any other letting property in residential areas.

It is my understanding the developers are locals and should be encouraged in their attempts to make use of unused buildings. As an aside, I have no problem with unisex toilets.

Margaret MacEachen, Oban.