Issue - meetings

Report ES14085

Report ES14085 outlined a proposal to close Penge High Street public toilet and introduce the Community Toilet Scheme (CTS) at three locations in the town.

Whilst preferring that the public toilet is kept open, Councillor Brooks, sought confirmation there would be publicity related to any closure; that staff at the proposed CTS locations would be fully briefed on arrangements; and that enough queuing space would be provided within premises. Councillor Brooks also sought assurance that the public toilet building would not be allowed to deteriorate at a time when a number of Penge traders were endeavouring to provide attractive premises in pursuit of custom. It was important the building does not fall into disrepair and become subject to graffiti, rendering it a negative asset for Penge.

It was confirmed that any closure of the public toilet would be publicised including: a proposed closure notice; a notice on the closed door of the building; updated page(s) on the Council’s website; and provision of relevant public signs to CTS facilities. There was no additional cost to L B Bromley in providing these CTS facilities; two of the locations, McDonalds and Sainsbury’s were thought to be part of the London-wide community toilet scheme, “Open London”. Stickers would also be displayed in windows of the premises providing CTS facilities (including baby changing facilities where provided).

Should closure of the public toilet building be agreed and the Portfolio Holder for Resources subsequently declare the property surplus to Council requirements, the property would be offered for sale. Should a purchaser not be found, it would be necessary to proceed to demolition and reinstatement of the site. Pending a sale of the property, the relevant maintenance budget for the building would be sustained. The Assistant Director, Street Scene and Green Space, intended to work with colleagues in the Strategic Property team to ensure the building is sold quickly. 

The Chairman suggested that the Committee might wish to make a request to the Portfolio Holder for Resources that the building should be prevented from falling into disrepair. Members supported this.

It was suggested to Councillor Nathan that closing remaining public toilets in the borough in favour of more CTS facilities is a preferred policy direction. However, too many CTS providers in a town centre might start to become a cost burden for the Council, and it was felt that three CTS facilities in Penge would provide sufficient coverage.

RESOLVED that:

(1) the Executive be recommended to agree -

• the closure of Penge High Street public toilet from 1 January 2015 and

• the introduction of the Community Toilet Scheme (CTS) in Penge town centre; and
  
  

(2) the Portfolio Holder for Resources be requested to ensure that measures are in place to prevent the public toilet building falling into disrepair.