Issue - meetings

This report considers the options available for the provision of public conveniences.

The Conservators received a report considering the options available for the provision of public conveniences.

The Conservators received a verbal introduction from the Head of Property and Regeneration.

The following matters were raised by Conservators:

a)            Reason for proposed locations: Members spoke about the proposed locations for the conveniences, and asked whether the block could be situated near the Top Car Park. The Officer explained that the block was proposed to be built next to existing adjacent buildings (Tea Rooms and Downskeepers’ Hut) to make use of existing services, water and drainage. This would avoid incurring instillation costs and is nearer to the main visitor areas.

b)            Clarification of ‘timed doors’: Following a question from a Member, the Officer explained that the ‘timed doors’ that referred to are where the opening hours of the facilities can be controlled so that the doors could be opened during the day and then locked at a set time in the evening. This would remove the cost involved with employing a keyholder to lock up at the end of the day.

c)            Potential for visitors centre: Members spoke about the possibility of a visitors centre combining café and toilets at Tattenham Corner. The Officer noted that a development of this scale would require a large sum of money.  It would require external funding and would be a long term project.

d)            Potential of refurbishing existing block: Members spoke about the possibility of refurbishing the existing convenience block, and the Officer implemented an additional recommendation to cover the exploration of what this may cost.

e)            Number of units: Concern was expressed thatthe proposed single or double unit facility was a very significant reduction on the current provision.  Officers were asked to include costings for multiple units.

The Officer suggested the addition of a Recommendation (3) to read:

(3)      To explore the cost of re-provision of the existing toilet facility, including addressing any anti-social behaviour that exists.

This additional recommendation was accepted by the Conservators.

Following consideration, it was resolved unanimously that the Conservators:

(1)      Agreed to explore with the Jockey Club whether a single, double or triple modular toilet facility can be accommodated directly adjacent to the Tea Hut and if suitable, a costed proposal would be brought back to the Conservators for consideration.

(2)      If the Tea Hut option is not feasible, to explore the cost of providing a single, double or triple modular toilet facility adjacent to the Downkeepers’ Hut.

(3)      To explore the cost of re-provision of the existing toilet facility, including addressing any anti-social behaviour that exists.

(4)      The outcome of 1), 2) or 3) above will be reported back to the Conservators at a future meeting.

(5)      To agree that the existing facility should remain closed while the alternative options are explored.