Cambridge City Council has opened new public toilets on Silver Street bridge, costing nearly £1 million, which include three 'squat-style flushing toilets' for international visitors. The facilities replace old conveniences prone to flooding and charge £1 for use, sparking fury among some residents and visitors.
£1 charge criticised
Heather Boyd, 60, from Orwell, told the BBC: "I need the loo right this minute. I saw it was £1 and I've just walked past and I'm going to try and find a shop." She described the toilets as 'state-of-the-art' but added: "I'd much rather they built just a normal set of toilets and charged nothing, than one really slick one and charged a pound." Asked about using a squat toilet, she said: "I certainly think if I'm going to spend £1, I'm not going to squat as well. That is absolutely crazy."
Another visitor, Lloyd from Boston in Lincolnshire, joked: "I wanted to go spend a penny, and I spent a pound," calling the charge 'extortionate'.
Council defends decision
Council leader Katie Thornburrow defended the charge, saying the authority wanted the toilets to be 'clean and safe'. She acknowledged signage explaining the charge needed improvement and said the fee would be reviewed after six or 12 months. Labour councillor Martin Smart said the new loos 'really enhance the cityscape' and 'will provide a modern, well-managed facility for thousands of the visitors we welcome to Cambridge each year'.
The charge helps pay for an attendant present six hours a day. The toilets are near the Mathematical Bridge at Queens' College and include wheelchair-accessible facilities and baby-changing areas. Free alternatives exist, including on Parker's Piece, with the nearest about a 10-minute walk away in a shopping centre.
