Community toilet scheme launches in Calderdale village

The public toilet block in Mytholmroyd has been demolished as part of flood alleviation works with the Environment Agency.

While options for alternative toilet provision elsewhere in the town are being investigated, Calderdale Council has been working with local businesses to encourage them to take part in a community toilets scheme.

In return for businesses making their toilet facilities available free of charge to visitors, the Council will pay a grant to cover the costs of additional toiletries and utilities.

A number of businesses have already signed up to the scheme and the Council is distributing stickers to participating businesses which will be placed in their window to let visitors know they’re part of the toilet scheme.

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, Councillor Barry Collins, said: “Although this scheme is an interim measure while we look at options for a new location for public toilets in Mytholmroyd, it’s a great idea that could be mutually beneficial for visitors and businesses.

“I’d like to thank the businesses who have already signed up for the scheme and encourage others to do the same.”

Similar schemes are in place in a number of towns across the country, typically in tourist areas.

The schemes have proved successful in these areas with many participating businesses reporting an increase in trade through additional footfall. If successful, this may become a pilot for introduction in other areas of Calderdale without public toilet provision.

The Mytholmroyd organisations which have signed up to the scheme so far are:

The Blue Teapot

The Kitchen Coffee House

Russell Dean

The Dusty Miller

Mytholmroyd Community Centre

The Council is in discussion with other organisations to add more to the list.