Clwyd West MS Darren Millar has hit out at Conwy County Borough Council for failing to listen to local communities and pushing ahead with the closure of half its public toilets. 

In July, Conwy announced it would close 19 of its 40 public toilets on September 4, 2024, to cut costs.

This move was delayed after councillors voted in favour of recommending cabinet provides further statistics in advance of further consultation with councillors.

This week, the decision was made to proceed with the closure of the toilets.

Commenting on the news, Darren said:

“I am extremely disappointed that Conwy County Borough Council is still pushing ahead with closing half its public toilets. 

“This short-sighted move will only put off visitors, and make communities less liveable for local families, and elderly and disabled people.

“From the moment these cuts were first mooted I made my objections known and urged decision-makers to reconsider their position.

“It is very sad that they have not listened to me and the many residents who are strongly against the closures. 

“The county has a high population of elderly residents, and these closures will hit them the hardest, not to mention those with incontinence problems. It will no doubt discourage some from venturing out and lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. 

“Also, It doesn’t make us look like a very welcoming county to visitors if we can’t even provide these basic facilities. It will deter people from coming here, which will sadly impact on local businesses. It is a very short-sighted decision which fails to consider the long-term impact it will have on our towns. 

“Whilst I appreciate that all councils are looking to cut costs, closing public toilets is not the answer.”