England left with ‘toilet deserts’ as public facilities decline by 14% in a decade

The number of public toilets in England has declined by 14% over the past decade, leaving the country with significant “toilet deserts” and a ratio of one public toilet for every 15,481 people. This figure is considerably worse than in Scotland and Wales, where the ratios stand at 8,500 and 6,748 people per toilet, respectively. The reduction in facilities has raised concerns about public health, hygiene, and the impact on local high streets, according to a report based on data from 221 English councils. The Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) highlighted that the shortage of public toilets contributes to increased instances of public urination, creating unsanitary conditions and degrading public spaces. William Roberts, RSPH chief executive, emphasized that access to toilets is a universal need and that the current provision is inadequate, potentially deterring people from leaving their homes or forcing them to restrict fluid intake. The report calls for urgent action, including giving new strategic authorities a duty to ensure sufficient toilet provision and imposing regulations requiring developers to include public toilets in non-residential developments. Local councils currently bear the responsibility for determining toilet provision, but funding pressures have led many to reduce maintenance and closures. The Local Government Association noted that the lack of public toilets disproportionately affects vulnerable groups such as older adults, people with disabilities, those with medical conditions, families with young children, and individuals experiencing homelessness. Maintaining a single public toilet can cost councils around £25,000 annually, contributing to the financial challenges of sustaining these facilities. The decline in public toilets not only poses health risks but also threatens the vitality of high streets by discouraging people from spending time in public spaces. The report underscores the need for coordinated government action and increased investment to reverse the trend and improve access to essential sanitation facilities across England.