Edinburgh Council Considers Opening Toilets in Public Venues

Dan Heap, a councillor, proposed a toilet plan. He wants some public buildings to open their toilets. These buildings include Edinburgh Leisure sites and the EICC. Other council-owned places are included too.

Heap represents Sighthill/Gorgie. He notes some areas lack public toilets. His Gorgie experience prompted this plan. Now, people there must go far for a toilet.

Gorgie Farm and an Edinburgh Leisure pool exist there. People could use those. But Edinburgh Leisure restricts toilet use for its members. He seeks default access to toilets in council buildings.

Currently, Edinburgh libraries offer public toilets. Other council properties often restrict them. The motion highlights a shortage of public toilets. Some city areas really struggle.

Portobello recently faced a crisis. Councillors declined funding for summer toilets. Locals are upset by this lack of facilities. Businesses face issues from public urination.

Only two public toilet areas exist near the beach. One is on Pipe Lane. The other is on Bath Street. It’s a quarter mile from the water.

The motion suggests better toilet advertising. An online map could help people find them. The council already lists public toilets with their hours. A map shows Changing Places toilets.

The motion also addresses safety. It says some buildings should keep toilets private. Schools need to remain closed to the public. This protects children.