Aberdeenshire Council launches consultation on future of public toilets
Residents, visitors and businesses are being asked to share their views on the future of public toilets in a local authority region.
Aberdeenshire Council has launched a short survey which is now open until July 11, asking for feedback on the number of public toilets, opening hours, how they are maintained and whether the public would consider paying a small fee to help keep them open.
People can access the survey at https://engage.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/public-toilet-survey
While there is no legal obligation for local authorities to provide public conveniences, the council said it recognises how important they are to everyday life.
From supporting families and people with health needs, to making towns more welcoming for tourists and locals alike, the local authority outlined that public toilets help everyone feel more comfortable when out and about.
Currently, the council looks after 70 public toilets across Aberdeenshire:
• Forty-nine are managed directly by the council including regular cleaning and upkeep.
• Eleven are part of a community run scheme where local groups handle daily operations with support from the local authority.
• Ten are provided through a comfort partnership scheme with businesses offering free public access in exchange for a grant and promotion.
By working together with communities and local businesses, Aberdeenshire Council has been able to keep more facilities open – even as budgets tighten – but with funding under pressure, it said it needs to ensure the service is sustainable for the future.
An Aberdeenshire Council spokesperson said: “No decisions have been made on future toilet provision, however the survey responses will directly inform councillors as they plan how to deliver a service that meets local needs and remains financially viable.”
