Public loos get the chop to save cash

Two public toilets are to be closed as part of cost-cutting measures by the Waitaki District Council.

Under discussion on Tuesday as part of the Draft Annual Plan 2012-22 was the closure of the two toilets, one in Severn St behind the Oamaru Opera House, and the second in Thames St.

Closure of the two facilities, which together cost $30,000 to operate, was opposed by councillor Peter Garvan.

Mr Garvan said information on the usage of both facilities was unknown.

"It is a small part of the budget and I recommend they are kept open," he said.

Mr Garvan was supported by councillor Helen Stead, who reminded fellow councillors that Oamaru was a tourist town.

"I find it quite bizarre that we are trying to increase our presence and yet don't have our strategy right when it comes to services like public toilets," she said.

Councillor Sally Hope said she hoped that, with the closure of the two toilets, other facilities would be better signposted so visitors, in particular, would know where the nearest loo stop was.

By closing the two public toilets, the council will be saving $30,000 - or an average residential ratepayer $2.33 per year on a rates account.