Could we see Portobe-loos at Portobello?
There's calls for portable toilets along the promenade to stop beachgoers using gardens and alleyways to relieve themselves
Portobello beach looks set to get some new Portobell-loos, after residents “significant distress” and fears that it could have serious implications on public health.
Tommy Sheppard, MP for Edinburgh East, is leading the calls for the City of Edinburgh Council to implement portable toilets along the Portobello promenade.
Sheppard has now taken matters into his own hands by sourcing a quotation from a local porta-loo provider in hopes of getting the Capital’s council to re-think.
The SNP MP alongside the areas Councillor, Kate Campbell, have already pressed Edinburgh Leisure to allow the public to use facilities at Portobello Baths. However, the firm said the keep up would cost too much.
The proposed solution would see a block of six toilets for eight weeks during the summer months would cos just under £4000 – but costs for keep u are still unknown.
Writing a letter to Chief Executive Officer of the council, Andrew Kerr, he describes details of posts on social media as “awful”.
Council 'will enhance provision on temporary basis'
Scott Arthur the council's Transport and Environment Convener, said: “We’re committed to delivering high quality and accessible toilets at Portobello Prom, as well as in other key locations across the city. This is set out in our public conveniences strategy.
“We already have two toilet blocks in Portobello but recognise the growing popularity of the area and the importance of public conveniences to support this so will look to enhance the current provision on a temporary basis.
"We also call on other organisations to ensure their facilities can be used by the public wherever possible. We very much hope the Visitor Levy for Edinburgh will help address exactly this kind of issue.
“However, there is no excuse for this kind of behaviour anywhere in the city. I’d also ask everyone out enjoying the beach responsibly – use the public toilets and, it goes without saying, if there isn’t one nearby, hold it in till you get home.”