Newport Parish Council have agreed to seek planning permission for an upgraded toilet facility in Post Office Lane, off the High Street.
Since Newport Parish Council took over the provision of the Post Office Lane facilities in Newport they have been working with Christopher Scott, Chartered Surveyors and Development, to
develop a scheme for new unisex and disabled toilets.
Under the plans, which were agreed during this month’s Parish Council meeting, the current block will be demolished and 3 Danfo toilet modules installed. These user friendly units will be further enhanced by attractive landscaping of the surrounding public space.
Using the expertise of AJ Wells and inspiration from artwork by young people and local artists, it is hoped to make the whole area much more acceptable and attractive.
Unfortunately, the talks with the Isle of Wight Council regarding the transfer of toilet facilities in nearby South Street have reached an impasse. These toilets have been closed by the Isle of Wight Council since April following drainage issues.
The Parish Council has offered to open the block and take on day to day maintenance, with the overall responsibility for the building remaining with the Isle of Wight Council, but this has not been accepted. There is currently an arrangement with McDonald’s to use their facilities as a community toilet and it has been agreed to extend this for an additional 12 weeks. There are also talks with Southern Vectis regarding providing a customer toilet in the bus station.
Chair of the Parish Council’s Devolved Services Committee, Cllr Whiteman said:
“I am extremely pleased our Members want to take this opportunity to improve this eyesore of a toilet facility within our capital town and this will mark the first stage of improving all our toilet
blocks for residents and visitors”.Article continues below this advertisement
Cllr Jones-Evans as the local ward Councillor added:
“I always saw the transfer of the public toilets to the Parish Council as a fantastic opportunity to improve these valued facilities.
“Opening up this unattractive space which is unloved into a bright, safe open environment and working with local artists is going to vastly improve the experience of being in Newport”.
