Argyll and Bute Council to Eliminate Public Toilet Fees

Councillors have agreed to recommend that five public toilets return to free access. Honesty boxes will be used for payments at those sites.

Facilities affected

The five toilets identified are Glenmorag, Port Bannatyne, Colintraive, Tighnabruaich and Sandbank. Together they generated under £5,000 in income in 2024/25.

Where charges will stay in place

Charging mechanisms will remain at Inveraray, Helensburgh, Ardrishaig and Lochgilphead. Those locations produced higher levels of income.

Council process and timetable

A report had urged the committee to approve free access at the five sites. Members instead agreed to refer the proposal to the full council for final decision.

The matter was discussed at the environment, development and infrastructure committee meeting on Thursday, March 19. The full council is next scheduled to meet on Wednesday, April 29.

Community interest and asset transfer options

Councillor William Sinclair highlighted local interest, notably in Colintraive. He asked how the council would support community maintenance if transfers proceed.

Andy Summers, head of roads and infrastructure services, said officials want a more streamlined approach. He also said community councils are often not able to accept asset transfers.

Summers added the council will work on a policy for transfers. Officials will ensure community groups are properly constituted before transfers proceed.

The debate sits within wider discussions about Argyll and Bute Council to Eliminate Public Toilet Fees while balancing costs and community roles. Filmogaz.com will monitor further developments.