Portaloos proposed in Richmond to tackle public urination

The move comes after COVID-19 restrictions caused a surge in public urination this time last year.

The temporary toilets are set to be placed on Richmond Green, Richmond Riverside and Twickenham Green in the coming weeks.

During the first lockdown, anti-social behaviour increased in open spaces as a result of the good weather and closure of pubs, bars, and restaurants.

Despite opening more public toilets, setting up a Community Toilet Scheme, and employing COVID marshals to regulate inappropriate behaviour, there were still reports of public urination.

Twickenham Green is one of three areas portaloos could be placed

The Council held a series of public meetings in August 2020, to determine how best to tackle the issue. 

But local Conservatives said not enough was being done to combat the lack of access to toilets.

Cllr Pamela Fleming said: “I am dealing with regular complaints reporting anti-social behaviour such as people urinating in shop doorways in Richmond.

Not only is this unhygienic, but the lack of toilet facilities is also extremely challenging for some residents. The community toilet scheme has been great but in these unprecedented circumstances where many of the usual community toilet options are closed, I urge the council to make appropriate provision to ensure everyone has equal opportunity to confidently visit Richmond and importantly somewhere to wash their hands”.

Portaloos may be installed in public spaces across Richmond

Richmond Council said the portaloos proposed this year would be serviced five times a week, including a deep clean.

An attendant would be present for eight hours a day, to ensure social distancing and regular cleaning.

Cllr Julia Neden-Watts, Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Services Committee for Richmond Council, said:

“Whilst the majority of residents have abided by the restrictions and made sacrifices to make sure we all stay safe, a small number of selfish people have made the lives of people who live in Richmond and near Twickenham Green extremely unpleasant, urinating and defecating on or near their homes.

“We have always been clear that temporary toilets are very expensive, and not a long-term solution. However, as the restrictions are still going to be in place for some months, we need to make this investment for the sake of our residents and those who wish to enjoy our open spaces responsibly.”