Decision details

The Committee considered a report by the Chief Executive (circulated previously) regarding the Cattle Market Toilets, Barnstaple.

The Chief Executive highlighted the following:

·       This was a review of the situation at the Cattle Market toilets; due to anti-social behaviour, an urgent decision had been taken towards the end of 2022 to close the facilities on a temporary basis.

·       Enquiries had been made with the relevant agencies and officers seeking views on further extending the closure as well as the impact of the recent closures.

·       Barnstaple Town Council had reported there was an increase in issues of anti-social behaviour at the Rock Park toilets which indicated a possible transference of the problems.

·       The Drug Advisory Service had advised that there was evidence of drug paraphernalia in the alleys and walkways towards Commercial Road and the river.

·       Town Centre traders in the vicinity had reported a much improved situation with reduced anti social behaviour and criminal activity.

·       Whilst it was not ideal closing a town centre toilet facility to the public the closure seemed to be successful.

·       If the Cattle Market toilets were to be reopened now then the Anti-Social Behaviour team felt the drug associated activities would resume.

RESOLVED that subject to comments from officers and agencies, the cattle market toilets, Barnstaple remain closed until the Easter school holidays 2023.