Britain's dying high streets could be saved by an unlikely revival: the return of public toilets. The first flushing public toilets were invented 175 years ago, but now an estimated 60% have vanished from our streets, leading to a resurgence of public urination and health hazards.
The Decline of Public Conveniences
According to a recent report by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH), public toilets in England declined by 14% since 2016, leaving just one loo for every 15,481 people. This creates widespread 'toilet deserts,' particularly affecting the elderly, disabled, and homeless. William Roberts, chief executive of the RSPH, notes that if Lord Mandelson—who was recently fined for urinating in public—cannot find a toilet, then there is little hope for others.
Historical Context
Victorian plumbing was once the envy of the world. In 1851, sanitary engineer George Jennings installed his 'Monkey Closet' flushing toilets at the Great Exhibition, and the following year, the first public flushing toilets opened on Fleet Street. An underground network of ornate municipal conveniences was built in the 1880s to serve growing city populations. However, many of these were closed or sold off in the 1960s due to inaccessibility, flooding, and association with antisocial behaviour.
Modern Solutions
The RSPH advocates for rebuilding public toilets through private partnerships and card-based access schemes. Roberts argues that better facilities can revive neglected town centres: 'High streets need to generate income, and if you want people to come, you need to encourage them with better facilities.' Some Victorian toilets have been converted into bars and restaurants, like The Attendant in Fitzrovia, London, but the focus is on restoring public access.
Health and Social Impact
The lack of public toilets forces people to use pubs or fast-food outlets, but many vulnerable individuals avoid going out altogether. This leads to restricted fluid intake and social isolation. The situation is less critical in Scotland and Wales, where planning requirements compel councils to provide toilets. Roberts emphasises that public toilets are essential for community workers and the general population.
Lessons from History
Historian Dr David Musgrove highlights that public toilets have existed since Roman times, with medieval cities like York mandating facilities. Henry VIII's Hampton Court had a 28-seat latrine, and in 1421, Lord Mayor Dick Whittington built a public long drop for 128 people. The loss of these spaces reflects a broader decline in community and neighbourliness. As Musgrove says, 'Perhaps the loss of public toilets is a reflection of that.'
Restoring public toilets could not only improve public health but also breathe new life into high streets, making them more inviting for everyone.
