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 APPENDIX B

MTCMI Street scene sub group comments on O&S report on public conveniences

General Comments

It was considered that the recommendations had not been thoroughly thought through and at least one of the proposed closures would be difficult to achieve due to the lack of alternative commercial premises in the locality.

The savings indicated were unrealistic given the decommissioning, potential redundancy and costs to implement the community public convenience scheme.

It was also felt that the proposals would work for shoppers but would not be suitable for events such as the River Festival which would require temporary facilities to be brought in.

The concept of a community facility scheme is good and could raise overall standards and accessibility but signage and delivery would need to be excellent.  Such a scheme will only work where several suitable alternatives are available in the locality.

Closing toilet facilities in the town centre will impact on drug use and homeless

activity and should be discussed in advance with the relevant agencies.

Comments on Individual Proposals

Church Street

Gateway should be made available subject to extending cleansing arrangements.  These facilities will be the subject of redevelopment in a few years but are strategically placed in the town and are the most frequently used facilities.

These could be closed if suitable alternative community facilities could be provided.

Palace Avenue

Poor facilities, detracting from the Council’s reputation and should be closed as soon as possible.  New facilities should be provided in the longer term in the Archbishops Palace complex area.  Alternative community facilities are to be sought.

Fairmeadow

Suitable community type facilities are very limited in the locality but even were they to be found it is unrealistic to expect people using the riverside to leave it, cross the highway and go the distance required to find a convenience. This suggestion is in direct contradiction to the aspirations arising from the “Use of the River” Overview and Scrutiny Report.

These facilities are always clean but are in need of refurbishment.  They are on a key position next to the river.  If the river is to be exploited and used by more people, these facilities must be retained.

The site is considered in the High Street scheme for re-development and perhaps the site should be marketed.

July 2009