The lack of public toilets in Wisbech due to “vandalism or closure” has been criticised by a district councillor - after police were also called to a suspected break-in at a block.
Officers were spotted at St Peters car park toilets on Sunday, after it was reported that thieves caused damage trying to remove money containers.
District councillor Virginia Bucknor took to social media this afternoon to question what was happening with the toilets in the town, saying she had raised concerns with council bosses.
It comes after she said she had been contacted by residents querying where the toilets in the town had gone.
Cllr Bucknor called the Wisbech Park and Exchange Square block “ghastly” and said that others had been vandalised several times.
She posted: “St Peters car park toilets - FDC advise someone tried to remove the money containers. This caused damage and an engineer will visit tomorrow (Thursday) when I will receive an update.
“Horsefair toilets - I spoke to Kevin, the manager this morning. These will remain permanently closed. As you know they’ve been vandalised several times.
“Wisbech Park and Exchange Square toilets - the park toilets are working but I asked Wisbech Town clerk if they’ve set aside some funds to undertake a major renewal some time in the future as they’re pretty ghastly.
“He’s advised it was discussed in Feb and a meeting with a specialist company is to be held. No mention whether they’ve set aside money to undertake the work though.
“Exchange Square toilet - these have been closed for over a year. WTC advise there are no plans to deal with as yet.”
In a statement from the Horsefair Shopping Centre, manager Kevin Smith, said they had been forced to close the toilets due to “unaccaptable antisocial behaviour”.
He explained: “Unfortunately, due to ongoing and unacceptable antisocial behaviour and misuse of the facilities, we have been forced to close the toilets at the Horsefair Shopping Centre.
“Our priority is, as always, the welfare and protection of our shoppers and, until we can guarantee their safety, the toilets will remain closed.
“The centre management completely appreciate the frustrations of shoppers and apologise for any inconvenience but this step is a vital measure in ensuring the safety of shoppers.”
People took to social media to express their upset at the lack of toilets in the town.
LJ Highfield said: “One of the problems with public toilets is the use some make of them…those who graffiti and smash them up, just for the hell of it. Any new facilities will have to ensure that they are clean, safe and hygienic for the vast majority who need and would be very grateful for, decent toilets.”
Jayne Abrams added: “And they want to up-grade the market place, and want to people to visit? I hope something’s sorted out before Rose Fair week, don’t mind using “Porta-Loos”, but they shouldn’t be a permanent fixture in a town.”
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