Pub Group Voices Concerns Over Salisbury Toilet Closures
Salisbury’s pub group criticizes city council’s decision to close public toilets
Salisbury, UK, Public Toilets, Hospitality, City Council
Salisbury: City councillors made a big decision on Monday night. They approved a budget that includes closing the Central Car Park toilets and the underground ones in Market Place. This move aims to save around £100,000 each year.
The car park toilets are in a building that just got a fresh coat of paint, owned by Wiltshire Council. But the underground loos in Market Place? They’re in pretty rough shape.
Pub owners are not happy about this. They say it’s a “bad decision” that will put extra pressure on local pubs to provide facilities for customers.
The city council disagrees, suggesting that businesses could join a “Spend A Penny” scheme to attract more shoppers.
Carl Furber, the manager of The Market Tavern, spoke at the council meeting. He represented Salisbury Pubwatch and the Chickpea Group, which runs several pubs and a pizza place.
He mentioned that when Chickpea opened Nole in late 2020, the council was supportive. But lately, things have changed, making it tougher for businesses to thrive.
Furber pointed out that Market Square businesses have been restricted from expanding their outdoor seating. Just last June, The Market Tavern had to take down a tent they set up outside.
He also noted that businesses have faced hefty fines for not moving their outdoor seating for cleaning, which doesn’t happen as often as it should.
Adding to the frustration, he mentioned the Snow Bar, a temporary venture supported by the council that competes with local pubs but operates under easier rules.
Furber argued that expecting pubs to handle public toilet closures is just another poor decision that could hurt the visitor experience.
Another speaker at the meeting said many businesses were caught off guard by the toilet closure plans.
City council CEO Asa Thorpe responded, saying they’re open to discussions about expanding trading areas for businesses. He emphasized that events like the Snow Bar are meant to enhance the local scene.
Thorpe also mentioned that cleaning happens monthly and that fines are in place for those who don’t follow the rules. He reassured everyone that businesses won’t be left to deal with the toilet closures alone.
He suggested that the council could look into hiring portable toilets for big events in the square.
At the meeting, councillor Annie Riddle said she doesn’t think the closures will overwhelm local pubs. She believes they can manage if a good plan is put in place.