Plans are in place to install new public toilets at the Recreation Ground in Calne, with £110,000 allocated from developer contributions to deliver the project.
There are currently no permanent publicly accessible toilets at the site, although facilities exist within the Recreation Ground club building, which is owned by Calne Town Council but subject to a lease and not open for general public use.
The issue comes amid increased use of the Recreation Ground following the recent opening of the Ninja Warrior UK-style obstacle trail, with residents calling for improved toilet provision.
The Recreation Ground club building is leased to the Recreation Club under a long-term agreement running until 2046. While the building includes toilet facilities, the council said there is no requirement within the lease for these to be made available for public use. A toilet block on the Anchor Road side is currently used for storage and would not be suitable for use in its present condition. As a private members’ club, access to facilities is generally limited to members and their guests, although use may be permitted during specific events.
The council said that when leasing buildings it must consider the level of investment a third party can bring to maintain and improve the asset, with rental income helping to support other services for residents. Examples of similar arrangements include Bremhill View clubhouse and the former Anchor Road depot.
Plans were previously submitted for an extension to the building, including new changing facilities, a kiosk and a public toilet. Planning permission was granted, but the extension has not been built to date. In 2019, lease arrangements at the site were also restructured, including separate agreements for the Bowls Club and the subletting of a rugby pitch.
The Town Council has allocated £110,000 from Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to provide new public toilets at the Recreation Ground. The council said the new facilities are intended to provide a long-term solution for park users and are designed to be more suitable for public use. A portable toilet is due to be installed in the interim.
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