Fishguard will see two public toilet facilities closed and replaced with a new “pay per use” facility, subject to consultation, Pembrokeshire County Council’s cabinet decided today (Monday).

Vandal-struck Gelliswick is also likely to be closed forever.

A report to cabinet on the possible replacement of public conveniences in Parc y Shwt and West Street, Fishguard, stated: “Both current toilets are in need of an upgrade and West Street in particular has been the target of repeated vandalism.”

It is proposed to “improve the quality of the provision in Fishguard” and provide a new toilet block next to the bus stop on the new road development. This would be subject to planning permission.

“Based on population, visitor numbers, area served and distance to other facilities, one block in the centre is regarded as an adequate provision in the context of what is provided in other parts of the county,” added the report.

Cabinet heard that the two toilet blocks would be declared “surplus to requirements” and discussions would ensue with the town council to see if any other use could be found for them.

Councillor Pat Davies said that plans, including using the West Street toilets for a bike shelter, were being considered.

Cabinet also voted to close the public conveniences at Gelliswick. 

The toilets have been temporarily closed since October last year when vandals left all the cubicles unusable.

A report to Pembrokeshire County Council’s cabinet recommends that a consultation on the potential closure of the facilities be carried out.

October’s vandalism was the latest deliberate damage at Gelliswick which has the highest number of recorded incidents in a 12 month period, according to a council report.

Doors have repeatedly been kicked in, toilet pans smashed up and fireworks being set off inside.

The report for cabinet added: “Given the low usage levels and the level on investment required to allow this facility to reopen (with likely additional ongoing expenditure which will impact upon investment in other toilets across Pembrokeshire), it is proposed that this toilet block be permanently closed.”

Hubberston county council Viv Stoddart said at the time of October’s clsoure: “Gelliswick Bay is a popular recreation area for families. Closing the toilets is a regrettable decision, but the level of vandalism leaves the county council with no option.

“The toilet doors were locked overnight, but this was no deterrent to vandals, who smashed the doors down. One on occasion in August, the disabled door and store door were forced open, and the interiors trashed.

“Once again, a selfish and mindless minority have spoilt the quality of life of the law-abiding majority.”

Milford Haven Town Council decided in January that it was unable to take over the running of the toilets due to the level of vandalism.