New Forest District Council confirms new modernised Barton-on-Sea beach toilets will open in August

NEW modern public toilets are expected to open at Barton beach in August to replace a run-down block that was saved from closure.

As reported in the A&T, New Forest District Council granted itself permission earlier this year to demolish the facilities on the undercliff, south of Marine Drive East, and build a modern, slightly larger, block in its place.

The council had previously planned to demolish the existing portacabin unit, which had been installed in 2009 for temporary use.

The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic paused plans to replace it in 2020, along with public conveniences at Calshot beach.

However, a public outcry, including petitions signed by thousands, resulted in a U-turn by NFDC in March 2021.

The council pledged to invest £9,000 in improving both the Barton and Calshot blocks.

Designed to look like beach huts, the Barton toilets will include three unisex toilets, disabled and baby changing facilities, and a family room.

The council’s cabinet member for environment and sustainability, Cllr Geoffrey Blunden, said: “This project is one in our extensive ongoing public toilet maintenance and refurbishment programme.

“These toilets are in a popular area and are well used by residents and those on holiday, so I’m really pleased with the simple beach hut design of the toilets which fit sympathetically into the Barton cliff and beach landscape.”

The building will have durable weatherboard cladding and a pitched roof with integrated solar tiles. There will also be an external shower and facilities for filling water bottles.

The scheme had also been supported by New Milton Town Council.