Redcar Public Toilets to Introduce Charges Due to Anti-Social Behavior

The implementation of charges for public toilets in a town centre is underway, intended to deter drug users and anti-social conduct. These facilities, located on Moore Street in Redcar, Teesside, are situated close to the esplanade with views of the beach and experience significant usage, especially during the summer months. In response to an increase in anti-social behavior and vandalism observed over the past few years, the Labour-run Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council is installing barriers and a 30p entry fee. Conservative councillor Carolyn Curr described the decision as “not ideal” but acknowledged the council’s necessity to act to ensure the safety of the toilets. Incidents have been reported, including children witnessing drug-taking within the facilities, as well as the presence of blood stains and discarded needles. Furthermore, staff members have encountered abuse when attempting to maintain the cleanliness of the toilets. Previous attempts by the council to manage the problem included employing a security guard during the summer. However, the authority’s cabinet concluded that this approach was not sustainable, necessitating a more enduring and economically viable resolution. An expenditure of between £30,000 and £35,000 is allocated for the new barrier system. With an estimated 60,000 annual users, the council anticipates recovering this investment within two years. Councillor Curr, who leads the council’s Conservative group, emphasized the importance of the council’s efforts “to stop this idiotic behaviour which is hard to comprehend”. She further stated that toilets represent an “important and often undervalued public service.” Curr elaborated, “When people are coming into the town – whether residents or tourists – it’s important they have clean and safe facilities to use.” She concluded, “The cost makes this a medium-term solution and we’ll be looking to make sure it’s a worthwhile expense, that’s the caveat.” The council announced that the barriers are expected to be installed within eight weeks, with payment options including a contactless system. The accessible and Changing Places toilet will, according to the council, remain free to use, though access will still necessitate a radar key and passcode. For updates, follow BBC Tees on X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.