A councillor says the proposed closure of public toilets must be stopped. Councillor Jane Lamb, of Eastbourne Borough Council, has tabled a motion to block the proposed community toilet scheme, which would involve businesses allowing public access to their facilities. At a full council meeting, Cllr Lamb said: “I'm one of hundreds who has objected to these proposed closures and the move to a community toilet scheme.
“What we are talking about is a public health issue, an inclusion issue, a tourism issue, and a respect and humanitarian issue. Going to the loo is a basic human right. “The maintenance costs this council cites as the need for toilet closures are in part due to their long-term failure to invest in our public facilities.
Cllr Jane Lamb (Image: Councillor Jane Lamb) “They are not maintained well enough and have not been kept up to date as many towns have, resulting in outdated and easily vandalised toilets that are expensive to run and clean. "To propose that people just use businesses' toilets instead will depend entirely on those businesses being open and the goodwill of their owners. Many will, of course, feel pressure to make a purchase, which will hurt our poorest residents the most.
“If we are open to business as a tourist town, then this should be essential for both visitors and residents. People taking a stroll along the seafront shouldn't feel panicked and uncomfortable. READ MORE: Visitors devastated as last day of Beachy Head heritage centre con.