Two reports setting out proposals for works to refurbish public toilet facilities at Clock Tower, Margate and Stone Bay, Broadstairs will be reviewed by the Overview and Scrutiny Panel, at a meeting on Tuesday 17 September. They will then be considered for approval by the Cabinet, on Thursday 26 September.
In December 2023, Cabinet approved an investment of £1.25 million to deliver the first phase of improvement works to public toilets across the district. Since then repair and improvement works to nine public facilities have been completed.
The reports propose the procurement and award of two contracts. The first, for works to refurbish the subterranean toilets on Marine Drive, Margate near the Clock Tower and build new toilets at street level that allow level access for disabled people. The estimated value of the contract will be £358k. The second, for works to refurbish the existing toilet block at Stone Bay, Broadstairs and build a new accessible toilet block at promenade level. The estimated value of the contract will be £283k.
The toilets at Marine Drive have been closed since 2019 and can only be accessed by a staircase. In order to provide fully accessible facilities, new toilets would need to be built. Both proposals for new toilets are subject to planning permission.
If approved by Cabinet, it is anticipated that works will commence in 2025. Both reports can be found on the council website.
Cllr Steve Albon, Cabinet Member for Cleansing and Coastal Services said: “We recognise the importance that the provision of public toilets has for both local people and visitors. The opportunity for Councillors to consider how we might continue to improve them and make them accessible for all the people that might need them is welcomed. Cabinet looks forward to receiving the recommendations made by the Overview and Scrutiny Panel so that we can make a timely decision. ”
The council provides public toilets for the benefit of residents and visitors to key locations within the district. A list of all the council’s public toilets, alongside their opening hours can be found on the website: thanet.gov.uk/public-toilets/
