The limited reopening of public toilets in popular Edinburgh parks and Portobello Beach could take place from Monday July 13.
It comes as welcome news to Edinburgh residents after many complaints of park and beach visitors defecating on nearby streets.
As lockdown measures relaxed and people were able to meet others outdoors the issue that the lack of public toilets presented was apparent.
The Edinburgh City Council’s Policy and Sustainability Committee will vote next Thursday on whether to allow public toilets to reopen in Cramond, Hawes Pier, the Bruntsfield Links, Princes Street Gardens, the Meadows and Pipe Lane in Portobello.
If the vote passes, public toilets in these areas will remain open from 11.00am until 6.00pm every day of the week.
All other facilities will stay closed for the time being.
Adam McVey, Council Leader, said: “The city is slowly starting to return to a ‘new normal’ and as more restrictions are gradually eased we know a lot of people are out enjoying our beautiful parks and beaches, and more recently returning to visit the many and varied quality shops and other businesses Edinburgh has to offer.
“We are reopening some toilets to ease the situation but I would ask that everyone is respectful they’re when out and about. Plan ahead and if you’re caught short, get home to use your own facilities if there are none open nearby.
“It’s only possible to reopen some public toilets in busy areas as we must make sure we’re following government guidance and putting in all of the necessary measures required such as additional deep cleaning and physical distancing to keep everyone safe.
“The cost of reopening can’t be underestimated but it’s important that we do all we can to support our communities and combat the negative anti-social behaviour some of our residents have experienced.”
