URL: https://meetings.westoxon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=476

Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To seek agreement for investment in Public Conveniences, with allocation of capital funding

Content: Councillor Alaric Smith, Executive Member for Finance, introduced the item, the purpose of which was to seek funding for the renovation, redesign and repair of the Public Conveniences to be retained within the district to ensure a high-quality service for the customer.   In his presentation Councillor Smith made the following points:   Following consultation, the Town or Parish Councils had not taken the option to take on facilities. Seven public conveniences would remain open. Those that would remain open were located where they were most needed and would be improved. The remainder facilities would be closed on 31 March 2026, and signage would be displayed to advise of the closures. The focus of renovation, redesign and repair works would be on the remaining well used facilities. The improvements would be on a direct access design which was less likely to attract anti-social behaviour, were more capable of being easily cleaned, were gender-neutral and more accessible. Cashless payment would also be introduced as part of the work. The current cost to the Council of providing public conveniences was £269,747. This cost was reduced by £114,7545 by the closures proposed. The closures also would avoid repair costs on closed facilities estimated to be £87,700 over the next three years.    The alternative option was that the Executive could have decided not to invest in the retained facilities but unless repairs were carried out the condition would deteriorate further.   Councillor Andy Graham, Leader of the Council, seconded the proposal and advised that a further report would be brought to the Executive on the proposals for disposal of the closed assets. Councillor Graham noted that this process was an example of the Council making assessment of the use of its assets and the use did change over time.   Councillor Hugo Ashton, Executive Member for Planning, highlighted the importance of the upgrades for the visitor economy and welcomed the addition of cashless payment which would improve access. Councillor Ashton suggested that it would be appropriate for the Council to consider increasing charges in the future.   A non-Executive Member present requested that officers reconsider the detail of the facilities at Kilkenny Country Park. The Member also requested that the returns from the sales of the assets being disposed of be earmarked to improvements works at the remaining public conveniences.   This was voted on and agreed unanimously.   RESOLVED: That the Executive: Allocated funding of £532,140 within the capital programme for 2026/27 to enable the delivery of Option 2 - redesign, renovation and repair of public conveniences at Langdale Gate in Witney, Guildenford and High Street in Burford, Bampton Town Hall, New Street in Chipping Norton, Hensington Road in Woodstock and Kilkenny Country Park, and to introduce cashless payment at these sites. Delegated authority to the Executive Director – Corporate Services in consultation with the Director of Finance and the Executive Members for Finance and for Environment, to agree the detailed design and improvements and to award the contract.

Date of Decision: February 11, 2026