Lochaber communities invited to become partners in Highland Comfort Scheme

The Highland Council is inviting expressions of interest from businesses and organisations in a bid to secure alternative public toilet facilities in the communities of Kinlochleven, Kilchoan, Lochaline and Arisaig. 

Following the decision by The Highland Council to close some public toilets across Highland as part of the Councils cost cutting measures, selected communities are now being encouraged to come up with alternative proposals if they wish to ensure that access to public toilet provision is maintained within their area.

A monthly payment in return for running a suitable facility is on offer under the ‘Highland Comfort Scheme’ initiative.

Vice Chairman of the Council’s TEC Services Committee, Councillor Brian Murphy said: “The Council has no statutory obligation to provide public toilets but we would like to work with local businesses, community groups and individuals to ensure that there are public facilities in the majority of our communities. Other local authorities across the whole of the UK are running similar comfort schemes. Not only do the businesses and groups taking part get a confirmed income but there is the potential for more customers, especially tourists, to come through their doors.”
 
Individuals, businesses or organisations wishing to express an interest and find out more about the Highland Comfort Scheme should, in the first instance contact  Community Works Manager Michael Leary , The Highland Council, TEC services, Carr’s Corner depot, Lochybridge, Fort William, PH33 6TL Tel: 01397 709000 
 
The Closing Date for expressions of interest is 21st April 2011. More communities across the Highlands with public toilet provision closing will be invited to come up with alternative proposals over the coming months.
 
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