Empty historic building used as toilet, locals say

An empty, historic harbour building is being used as a toilet, locals say.

Residents on social media said the abandoned Customs House in Maryport, Cumbria, which is close to the shore, was having human waste and used toilet paper left in it.

The office building was built in the late 1830s for managing trade as the shipyard became established as an official port, before being closed in the 1960s after the port was shut to traffic.

Cumberland Council said it was aware of the reports and was investigating.

A spokesperson said: "Leaving human waste and rubbish in public spaces creates a serious environmental and public health concern, detracts from an area enjoyed by local residents and visitors, and has a negative impact on an important historic site."

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