Ferryhill’s public toilets have been closed on Saturdays after being “misused” by visitors, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
Ferryhill Town Council, in County Durham, said the decision to shut the facilities at North Street is temporary while it works to mitigate the issues.
The toilets will remain open throughout the day, Monday to Friday.
The facility had previously been monitored by a member of Ferryhill Town Council on Saturdays, but the authority said the ongoing misuse of the toilets left them “vulnerable”.
Curtis Bihari, Ferryhill mayor, said: “There’s a number of issues we’re facing and we’re concerned about the immediate impact to the public.
“The temporary closure is to ensure public safety until we can get safety measures in place.”
Residents suggested introducing a payment scheme to curb the number of incidents.
In a statement, the authority added: “The Town Council would like to reassure residents that we are working with the local police and neighbourhood wardens to mitigate the issues we are experiencing, and as a result, you may see a more visible presence in this area as the Town Council aims to tackle the issues.
“The Town Council’s aim is to ensure their facilities are safe for everyone who uses them, however, staff are also paramount and their safety is key.
“To ensure facilities are safe, the Town Council will continue working with key partners to ensure that this happens.”
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
