Public toilets to shut after series of attacks
The block in Ryde only opened in April
Last updated 17th Oct 2022
Temporary toilets on Ryde seafront will close following the October half term due to persistent vandalism.
Since the toilet block was installed on Western Gardens in April, cubicle doors have been pulled off their hinges, wash basins ripped off walls, fires lit and drains deliberately blocked with toilet roll.
Last month, Councillor Phil Jordan, Cabinet member for highways and infrastructure, warned the facilities could be removed permanently if the damage continued and appealed for the community's help in tracing those responsible.
It was hoped the attacks would tail off after the busy summer season but, sadly, that has not been the case.
Councillor Jordan, who is also the ward councillor for Ryde North West, where the toilets are situated, said: "This wasn't what any of us wanted to see happen, but we cannot allow the current situation to continue any longer.
"We're simply not able to provide a reliable service as they have to be closed frequently for repair and the consequent maintenance cost due to repeated vandalism and criminal damage is proving disproportionately expensive.
"We have reached out to the community for help, contacted the police and community safety partnership and have had ad hoc visits from contractors and security companies but we have been unable to stop this mindless vandalism.
"It's with a very heavy heart and disappointment that we are having to take this action as a last resort."
Following the works planned for Ryde Interchange, temporary toilets were installed on Western Gardens for the duration of the project works and while toilets were being refurbished and improved in the station building.
From the outset, the toilets have been subject to attacks of damage and destruction — including attempts to set them on fire — leading to ongoing closures.
New, fully accessible public toilets are set to open in the spring as part of the major refurbishment of Ryde Esplanade Station.