More than a third of Reading’s public toilets are currently closed, with five facing an uncertain future and two due to open again this month.

Seven public toilets in Reading are currently closed with another toilet partially closed, while nine are currently fully open.

Vandalism is behind the full closure of six of these toilets and the council is currently reviewing the future of five of them due to the costs of making them fit for use.

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Labour councillor Adele Barnett-Ward, who is lead member for Neighbourhoods and Communities, said: “Reading’s public conveniences are valued by most of our residents and visitors but unfortunately they are frequently targeted by a selfish and destructive minority who vandalise them, making them unusable until the council is able to undertake costly repairs.”

The situation was revealed at the council’s policy committee, with Green councillor Rob White asking which public toilets are closed, how long they have been out of action, and when the council plans to re-open them.

Cllr White said the closure of some public toilets is “an inconvenience for some but a big problem for many residents”.

A public loo review has been taking place since 2019, and Cllr Barnett-Ward confirmed a decision on the five toilets is expected soon and is a priority.

But she added: “Eleven years of Government-imposed austerity has laid waste to council budgets.

“The financial prudence and foresight of this Labour council means we are in a stronger financial position than many, but we still have to be circumspect in our spending, which is why due process must be followed before authorising the level of expenditure needed to repair and reopen the remaining closed facilities.”

Where the public loos are in the town

Closed – future under review

Northumberland Avenue – Closed since February 2020 due to vandalism. Its future is subject to review. Potential opening date unknown.

Whitley Street – Closed since February 2020 due to vandalism. Its future is subject to review. Potential opening date unknown.

Prospect Park – Closed since November 2020 due to vandalism. Its future is subject to review. Potential opening date unknown.

Kentwood Hill – Closed since July 2021 due to vandalism. Its future is subject to review. Potential opening date unknown.

Oxford Road – Closed for more than two years due to vandalism. Its future is subject to review. Potential opening date unknown.

Closed public toilets – being repaired

Cintra Park – Closed since March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and vandalism. Repair works due to be complete on July 23 after which it will be able to re-open.

Urilift – Hosier Street – Closed due to electrical fault since July 2021. Repair has been requested and the work is expected to be completed this month.

Partially open

Thames Side Promenade – Disabled 24-hour toilet open only. New doors ordered for male and female toilets, with works expected to be complete in September 2021.

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Open

The Meadway – Disabled 24-hour toilet only via Radar key.

Albert Road – Open 24-7.

Forbury Gardens – Open from 8.30am-5pm

Christchurch Meadows – Open from 8.30am-5pm

Cemetery Junction – Open from 6am-5.30pm.

St Martins Precinct – Open from 6am-11.30pm. Hours increased following councillor enquiry.

Caversham Court – Open from 6am-8.30pm

Henley Road Crematorium – Open 24/7.

Urilift by town hall – Open 24/7.