Understand
Whitby public toilets could return to council control to save money and improve standards
Overview
Public toilets in Whitby are being considered for a return to council control when the current management contract ends next July. A review found that the facilities have operated at a loss for years, costing the council £85,923 more than they generated between 2018 and 2024. Councillors have agreed to develop a detailed business case to examine the financial, operational, and staffing implications of bringing the service back in-house.
Key points
- Whitby town council has identified direct management of its public conveniences as its preferred option when the current contract ends in July.
- Facilities affected include those at New Quay Road, Pier Road, West Cliff, Abbey Headland, Market Place, and Ruswarp.
- A review revealed the toilets have never made a profit, with the council spending £85,923 more than received between 2018 and 2024.
- The council approved a £24,545 programme of surveys, including building condition and asbestos assessments, to inform future investment.
- Councillors noted that significant refurbishment and modernisation are required regardless of the future management model.