Repeat vandalism at Norton public toilets in Church Street

Repeated and mindless vandalism at Norton’s toilets in Church Street is causing significant damage and disruption for residents and visitors alike

Cllr Keane Duncan has joined with North Yorkshire Council, North Yorkshire Police and Norton Town Council to discuss action to prevent further damage.

“We have seen repeated and mindless vandalism at Norton’s toilets, causing significant damage and disruption for residents and visitors alike,” he said.

“I feel very strongly that we should not give in to a small minority by closing facilities that the wider community relies upon. Those responsible should face the consequences of their actions, not local people who need access to these important amenities.

“However, the vandalism is repeated and costly, which is why partners are working together to prevent further incidents.

“We discussed a range of measures including additional inspections, faster reporting, extra cameras, vandal-resistant fixtures and improvements to the surrounding area. We are also open to suggestions from the community.

“We are determined to do everything we can to protect these facilities and stop further damage occurring in the future.

Cllr Di Keal, Mayor of Norton on Derwent said: “Norton Town council believes that providing public toilets is an essential part of what a town provides for our residents and as Mayor I have spoken out again recently after the toilets were vandalised for the third time in the last few months. They are now thankfully open again.

“Our county councillor has assured us that the toilets are not under threat of closure for the time being, but the costs involved in repairs after repeated bouts of vandalism are huge, which is why we are appealing to local people to help us identify those who are determined to do this damage and deprive others of these important facilities.

“If anyone notices any suspicious behaviour around the public toilets they should report it to the police immediately on 101.

“The town council will fight to retain our toilets, which is why we have invested in CCTV to monitor the area, but I am appealing again for public support to help us. We are working with North Yorkshire Council and the police on the issue and hope that the culprits who are repeatedly ruining these facilities will be identified and prosecuted.”