Image demonstrating Next phase of public toilet refurbishments underway

Next phase of public toilet refurbishments underway

The next phase of public toilet refurbishments in Northumberland is getting underway. 
 
Work is due to start in the coming weeks to refurbish facilities at St Mary’s Wynd in Hexham and in Wooler Marketplace. 
 
In Wooler, the scheme involves refurbishment of the internal fixtures and fitting to the male, female and disabled facilities. Teams will also be carrying out repairs to the roof and render facade of the building. A baby changing facility will also be added. 
 
Over in Hexham, where the St Mary’s Wynd facilities have been closed for some time, there will be a complete refurbishment of the male, female and disabled facilities. 
 
Both sets of toilets are due to be open this June, ahead of the main tourist season. 
 
The improvements are part of a wider £1.35m three-year programme of works to improve the standard of all of the 54 public toilets in the county for which the council has responsibility. 
 
Councillor John Riddle, Cabinet Member for Local services at Northumberland County Council, said: “At a time when many councils are closing toilets we are investing in them.  
 
“Hexham and Wooler are both busy market towns, attracting not just locals but thousands of visitors every year. It’s only right we have high standard, modern facilities in the county and these are just the latest in our three-year programme of works.” 
 
Hexham Central with Acomb County Councillor Trevor Cessford said: “I'm delighted that my lobbying of the County Council regarding my wish to have the toilets in St Mary’s Wynd reopened has passed its final stage and that the work will start at the end of March and hopefully be ready to reopen to the public in June. 
 
“Since they were closed in 2017 I have arranged many meetings, both inside and outside of council committees, to discuss reopening these facilities. It’s been a long battle but thankfully a successful one.” 
 
Wooler County Councillor Mark Mather said: “I am over the moon to hear we have a start date for the refurbishment of Wooler public toilets. I have looked for investment in this facility for a while and am pleased we are actively stepping up to provide quality services for residents and visitors alike.” 
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