Betws-yn-Rhos could lose its public conveniences

Betws-yn-Rhos near Colwyn Bay is just one of 23 communities which could lose their conveniences.

Conwy council said it would consider the "distribution, usage and the costs involved with upgrading facilities" before making a decision.

But some villagers are adamant the conveniences are an essential services in rural areas.

Goronwy Davies, the chairman of Betws-yn-Rhos and Llanelian-yn-Rhos community councils, said: "I'm angry that the council say we could lose this toilet because they are too expensive to keep."

INTERIM COUNCIL REPORT Fewer toilets would allow upgrading of remaining Staff could clean toilets more often A payment system could be used in some Other organisations or individuals might provide toilet provision

"As far as I know they have never been changed or refurbished in any way since they were built around 50 years ago.

"They have never been vandalised and no-one has to open and close them as they are left open for 24 hours a day. How can they be expensive to run?"

According to Mr Davies the toilets are well used by visitors to the picturesque village with its historical St Michael's church.

"When the A55 is closed because of road works or whatever the traffic all comes this way," he added.

Gunter Poppe from Rhyl, who regularly visits the area, said: "The village is especially busy during the summer....we need them here."

Some vandalism

Barbara Simpson from Deganwy added: "It's silly to close public toilets. Many people come here to see the church. Their upkeep can't be that much."

There are over 60 public conveniences within the county of Conwy.

The council has set up a committee to look at the implications, and there will be further discussion before a decision is made.

A solution being discussed in Llanelian-yn-Rhos is for the community to take responsibility for its local toilet.

"The problem in Llanelian is that although the toilets are newer they suffer some vandalism," said Mr Davies.

"But it's possible the Llanelian hall committee will take them on, as the hall and nearby church have no facilities themselves."

Meanwhile the community council will have an open meeting at Betws-yn-Rhos on Monday, 3 October, so that anyone with an interest can voice their concerns.