THE FUTURE of Salisbury’s Market Place toilets is set to be decided next week.

A number of options are on the table, including spending up to £1,750,000 on creating a “multifunctional” civic asset that would combine public toilets with a raised platform/performance area and a café or kiosk.

The underground conveniences closed back in April, which sparked backlash from users and businesses.

But now, Salisbury City Council is set to discuss seven options for the future of the toilets at its Full Council meeting next Monday (July 14).

Both the male and female toilets have “deteriorated significantly” due to years of investment – and despite them costing £50,000 a year to maintain, they generated less than £2,000 revenue in their last six months of being open.

Plans were initially submitted in February, which would have seen the below-ground toilet block converted into a storage area for market traders and council workers with three new unisex toilets built at ground level, but these were withdrawn without an explanation why.

Now, new plans are being discussed.

Option one: Maintain disabled/all-access facility only  – no additional cost

This would come at no cost to public finances and ensure some level of city-centre provision, but it would provide inadequate capacity and would struggle to meet the demand during markets, weekends or events.

There are also issues with the site location, as it could still be prone to anti-social behaviour.

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Option two: Refurbish current facilities – £150,000 to £250,000

This would see the current facilities reopened following a full refurbishment of the facilities, fixtures and fittings: lighting, tiling, ventilation, and security enhancements.

It is estimated to cost £150,000 to £250,000, and the council says there would be accessibility concerns as stairs or lifts would still be needed and there is the potential for a repeat of past issues like drug use or vandalism.

But this option would enhance user experience, and would be more cost-effective compared to building a new facility.

Option three: Build new above-ground facility – £500,000 to £1 million

This would see modern unisex cubicles created in a new above-ground facility that would create a safer environment, but at a very high cost.

There are concerns it could cause disruption to the Market Square and the planning stage has the potential to drag on for up to two years.

Option four: New facility with stage and concession – £750,000 and £1,750,000

This is the most expensive option available at an estimated cost of between £750,000 and £1,750,000, but it would help to generate funds to offset the running costs.

It would, however, see a loss of Market Square space and could impact the Charter Market and events.

Option five: Repurpose underground space – £300,000

This would see the toilets closed permanently with the space converted into a storage space for civic uses.

However, this would provide limited public benefit.

Option six: Direct users to Guildhall toilets – £10,000 to £15,000

While this would require zero capital investment as it utilises an existing external facility, money would need to be raised for additional staff and cleaning costs. There are also restricted hours at the Guildhall, with no evening or early morning provision.

Option seven: Retail, licensee and restaurant scheme/ community toilet scheme

The Spend a Penny or Community Toilet Scheme is also an option, as this would see businesses, primarily cafes, restaurants, and shops, offer their toilets to the public for free, even to those who are not customers.

These businesses display a sticker to indicate their participation, and the public can use the facilities without needing to make a purchase.

The council could provide funding to participating businesses to cover the costs.

While this is low-cost, it is reliant on voluntary uptake, and opening hours may vary.

The council is set to discuss these options at its Full Council meeting on Monday (July 14).

What would you prefer? Let us know in the comments or send a letter to newsdesk@salisburyandavon.co.uk