Could Chef's Toilet Ban Really Cost the Council £280k?

A celebrity chef's decision to restrict toilet access at his restaurant has led to significant public expenditure on new facilities by a local council in north Wales. This situation has sparked debate about the appropriate use of taxpayer money and the accessibility of public amenities.

Last updated: 22 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Chef Bryn Williams restricts toilet access to paying customers at his Porth Eirias restaurant.
• A north Wales council has budgeted £280,000 for new public toilets nearby.
• Local councillor Cheryl Carlisle criticises the use of public funds for new facilities when existing ones are underused.
• The council is implementing a "Local Toilet Strategy" after closing 19 public toilets last year.
• The Dingle toilets remain free and open to the public, contrasting with the Porth Eirias facilities.

The Controversy Surrounding Toilet Access

In Colwyn Bay, Conwy, a notable issue has arisen involving chef Bryn Williams and his bistro located at Porth Eirias. Williams, who has garnered acclaim for his culinary skills and has received three Michelin Bib Gourmand awards, operates a restaurant that does not permit non-customers to use its toilet facilities. This policy has drawn significant criticism, especially in light of the council's decision to invest £280,000 in new public toilets nearby.

Bryn Williams and His Restaurant's Toilet Policy

Chef Bryn Williams is known not only for his culinary achievements but also for his strict toilet access policy at Porth Eirias. The bistro is located in a council-built facility, yet the toilets remain inaccessible to those who do not make a purchase. With a lease on the entire building, including the toilet facilities, Williams has opted to restrict access, which has sparked controversy among local residents and officials.

Local Officials' Reactions

Councillor Cheryl Carlisle has been vocal in her opposition to the council's decision to allocate funds for new public toilets. She argued that the existing facilities at Porth Eirias, which are not fully open to the public, should be made accessible to everyone rather than spending taxpayer money on new constructions. Carlisle described the situation as "astonishing," highlighting the inconsistency in public funding when there are already usable toilets in place, albeit restricted to paying customers.

Conwy Council's Position

Conwy council has stated that it secured funding for new toilets as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance public amenities. However, the specifics of how this money will be spent are still under discussion. The council has been grappling with budget constraints, leading to the closure of 19 of its 40 public toilets last year to save costs. In response, Conwy is working on a "Local Toilet Strategy" aimed at improving toilet availability across the region.

Public Amenities and Community Impact

Public amenities, especially toilets, play a crucial role in community wellbeing. The controversy surrounding the toilet access policy at Porth Eirias underscores a broader issue within local governance regarding the management of public resources. With the closure of existing public toilets, residents have expressed concerns about the accessibility of essential facilities. Conwy council's promise to keep toilets in its buildings open to the public, including its headquarters and libraries, is a step in the right direction, but the issue remains complex.

Addressing the Underlying Issues

The funding for new toilets has raised questions about resource allocation and community needs. While the Dingle toilets are free and available to the public, the situation at Porth Eirias reveals a gap in service provision that needs addressing. Carlisle's criticism points to the need for a more collaborative approach to public facilities, ensuring that existing resources are fully utilised before investing in new ones.

Future Considerations

As discussions continue regarding the future of public toilets in Colwyn Bay, the council must consider the voices of local residents and the potential impacts of its decisions. The economy and place committee meeting scheduled for 22 September will be a pivotal moment for stakeholders to voice their opinions and shape the direction of public toilet accessibility in the area.

Conclusion: A Call for Community Engagement

The ongoing debate surrounding the toilet access policy at Bryn Williams' restaurant and the corresponding council expenditure highlights the necessity for community engagement when it comes to public amenities. As Conwy council navigates the complexities of managing public resources, it remains essential for local voices to be heard in discussions about accessibility and funding priorities. How will the council ensure that taxpayer money is spent wisely while meeting the needs of the community? This question remains at the forefront of the discussion as stakeholders gather to seek solutions.

FAQs

Why does Bryn Williams restrict toilet access at his restaurant?

Bryn Williams restricts toilet access to paying customers as part of his restaurant's policy. Although the facilities are located in a council-owned building, they are leased privately and not fully open to the public.

What has the Conwy council decided regarding public toilets?

Conwy council has allocated £280,000 for new public toilets, despite existing facilities at Porth Eirias being underused. The specifics of the expenditure are still under discussion.

What is the "Local Toilet Strategy"?

The "Local Toilet Strategy" is an initiative by Conwy council aimed at enhancing public toilet access after the closure of many facilities due to budget constraints. It involves collaboration with community councils to maintain and improve services.

Are the Dingle toilets free to use?

Yes, the Dingle toilets are free and open to the public, providing an alternative to those who cannot access the facilities at Porth Eirias.

When will the matter be discussed at the council meeting?

The matter regarding public toilets and the allocation of funds will be discussed at the economy and place committee meeting scheduled for 22 September 2023.