3. FAQS
Public Toilet FAQ's
A quick view of each site and what is happening there:
Exmouth
- Foxholes: Disabled facilities available. Now Open. The new toilets cost 40p to enter.
- Magnolia Centre (London Inn), Manor Gardens and Queens Drive (Old Lifeboat): Open. Works start November 1, 2025.
- Phear Park: Open. Works scheduled for a later phase.
- Maer: Seasonal toilet. Open from 17th July until 30th September 2025
- Imperial Recreation Ground: Closed from March 31, 2025. Potential reopening by another in 2026 pending commercial redevelopment and with a reduced public toilet provision.
- Nearest alternative: Station (approx 4-minute walk).
- Exmouth Station: Remains open for 2025/2026. No immediate refurbishment planned. This site will be considered for future phases (see below).
- Orcombe Point: Closed from September 1, 2025.
- Nearest alternative: Foxholes (approx 8-minute walk).
Budleigh Salterton
- Lime Kiln (East End): New Toilet block now open. The new toilets cost 40p to enter
- Cliff Path (West End/Steamer Steps): Open. Works scheduled for a later phase.
- Station Road Car Park: Open. Now owned and managed by Budleigh Town Council from April 1, 2025.
Sidmouth
- Connaught Gardens and Triangle (Station Road): Open. Works scheduled for a later phase.
- Market Place: Open. Works scheduled for a later phase.
- Port Royal: Closed. New public toilet facilities now operated by Rockfish.
- Arches. Open. Owned and managed by Sidmouth Town Council.
Honiton
- Lace Walk: New toilet block now open. The new toilets cost 40p to enter.
- King Street: Open. Now owned and managed by Honiton Town Council from April 2025.
Axe Valley (Axminster, Seaton, Beer)
- West Walk, Seaton: Temporarily closed. New building reopening during summer 2025.
- Marsh Road, Seaton: Permanently closed. Nearest alternative: Harbour Road (within 5-minute walk).
- Harbour Road (Thury Harcourt Place), Seaton: Open. Works scheduled for a later phase. Nearest alternative: Tesco (2-minute walk, clearly signed).
- Seaton Hole: Open. Operated by a commercial tenant.
- West Street Car Park, Axminster: Open. Works expected to start November 2025.
- Jubilee Gardens, Beer: Open. Works scheduled for a later phase.
- Dolphin Street, Colyton: Open. Owned and managed by Colyton Parish Council from April, 2025.
Other Sites
- Sidford Cross, Sidford: Permanently closed. Site being sold.
- Sidbury: Permanently closed. Site being sold.
Cost & Funding
Why has the council spent £3.15 million on public toilets?
The council is investing £3.15 million as part of a major revamp to provide better-quality, modern public toilets in key locations. The aim is to improve cleanliness, safety, and accessibility while reducing ongoing maintenance costs. We have not invested in improving our toilets for more than 10 years, which is why this is now needed and why the figure is quite large.
What exactly does the £3.15 million cover?
The £3.15 million investment will cover the first phase of a strategy to modernise all retained public toilet provision across East Devon across. This cost accounts for construction only and does not cover future maintenance costs. Additional budget is likely to be required for latter phases of the investment programme, in main due to inflationary pressures since budget allocated.
PHASE1:
Refurbished toilets include:
- Foxholes Car Park, Exmouth: Now Open.
- Lime Kiln (East End), Budleigh Salterton: Now Open.
- Lace Walk, Honiton: Now Open.
- West Walk, Seaton: Now Open.
Closure of toilet sites on 31st March 2025 e.g. Imperial Recreation Ground
Every year, EDDC spends an average of more than £15,000 per toilet block on the day-to-day running of its public toilets, which became unsustainable due to the need to meet budget deficits and avoid service cuts in other key front line service areas.
In 2021, the authority reviewed the situation, recognising the need for significant investment in the toilets – especially with the challenges of meeting new hygiene standards and providing accessible facilities. This resulted in a growing funding gap between the cost of operation and available resources.
EDDC held a public consultation, inviting feedback from residents, equalities groups, and parish and town councils on how funds should be used. Their responses helped shape decisions about which toilets to retain and where investment should be made in a sustainable way.
Toilets that will be closed include:
Public toilets map and information - East Devon
Exmouth:
- Maer: Seasonal toilets which have been closed since the 2020 pandemic were permanently closed on March 31, 2025. This site will be marketed for another use or repurposed by EDDC.
- Nearest alternative: Foxholes (approx 8-minute walk).
- Imperial Recreation Ground: Closed on March 31, 2025. Secured potential tenant and anticipated reopening in 2026 pending commercial redevelopment with a retained smaller public toilet provision.
- Nearest alternative: Station (approx 4-minute walk).
- Orcombe Point: Closing when the Foxholes toilets reopen. Secured potential tenant and anticipated reopening in 2026 pending commercial redevelopment with a retained smaller public toilet provision (including one accessible toilet).
- Nearest alternative: Foxholes (approx 8-minute walk).
Sidmouth:
- Port Royal: Closed. New public toilet facilities will be offered by Rockfish. Temporary toilets are being provided until these are open.
Axe Valley (Axminster, Seaton, Beer):
- Marsh Road, Seaton: Permanently closed. Site being sold.
- Nearest alternative: Harbour Road (within 5-minute walk).
Other sites:
- Sidford Cross, Sidford: Permanently closed. Site being sold.
- Sidbury: Permanently closed. Sale agreed.
Toilets that will be transferred or run by town/parish councils or local organisations:
Axe Valley (Axminster, Seaton, Beer)
- Seaton Hole: Open. Operated by a commercial tenant.
- Dolphin Street, Colyton: Open. Now owned and managed by Colyton Parish Council.
Budleigh Salterton
- Station Road Car Park: Open. Now owned and managed by Budleigh Town Council
Sidmouth
- Long Park: Open. Owned and managed by Sidmouth Town Council.
- Arches. Open. Owned and managed by Sidmouth Town Council.
Honiton
- King Street: Open. Now owned and managed by Honiton Town Council.
PHASE 2:
Four pay-to-use toilet blocks with contactless access:
- Exmouth Magnolia Centre, London Inn, (new build).
- Exmouth Manor Gardens, (new build).
- Axminster West Street Car Park, (new build).
- Exmouth Queens Drive, (refurbishment).
FUTURE PHASES:
Six more pay-to-use toilet blocks at the following locations will be included in future developments:
- Budleigh Salterton Cliff Path, West End / Steamer / Rolle Rd, (new build).
- Sidmouth Connaught Gardens, (new build).
- Exmouth Phear Park, (new build).
- Sidmouth Market Place, (new build).
- Beer Jubilee Gardens, (new build).
- Sidmouth Triangle, (refurbishment / new build).
The Council also to consider new facilities at Harbour Road (Seaton), Station (Exmouth) and further facilities in Sidmouth in vicinity to swimming pool / The Ham.
Each block will include accessible facilities and baby changing units.
Is this new funding, or part of an existing budget?
It’s part of East Devon District Council’s existing capital programme, approved in February 2022 through the Public Toilet Review Strategy—not new or external funding.
EDDC also secured significant funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to provide three adult changing places facilities at Foxholes Exmouth, Seaton West Walk and Budleigh East End. These will offer essential specialist equipment for people with severe disabilities, enabling them to access toilet and welfare facilities when visiting.?
Could the money have been used to refurbish existing toilets instead?
No – most of the existing toilets were in such a bad state of repair that repairs to the fabric of the building and the interior fit out would not have made financial sense. Our building surveyors provided estimates as part of the 2021 cabinet papers. The decision was taken that new blocks were the most effective and financially sustainable option that provided the longest-term solution in most cases. There are some exceptions where the building was newer, in these instances internal refurbishment is chosen. Out of 14 sites, only 2 are proposed for refurbishment rather than re-build. The details of the later project phases are still being developed.
How was value for money ensured?
The works were competitively tendered according to public procurement requirements; the best value offers were accepted.
Payment System
Why do the new toilets cost 40p to use?
To help fund upkeep and reduce misuse. This model supports sustainable, clean facilities allowing us to continue operating this important service in key locations, whilst contending with reduced budgets. We no longer have enough budget to operate a free-to-use service in all the locations. The 40p charge, consistent with what others are charging elsewhere, will help pay for running and upkeep costs, including everything from toilet paper and soap for hand washing to water, electricity and cleaners.
I’ve already paid council tax, so it feels as if I am paying twice. Is this the case?
No. The council want to continue to provide Public Toilets for its residents but there is no legal obligation to do so. However, as with any assets maintained by the council, there needs to be a consideration as to how it will continue to be maintained where we have growing budget deficits and reducing central government funding. Like other authorities, we have introduced a small fee to make these facilities financially viable.
Will there be any concessions for beach hut tenants to have a card to use the toilets as we already pay a lot of money to have a beach hut?
No. The council want to continue to provide Public Toilets for its residents but there is no legal obligation to do so. However, as with any assets maintained by the council, there needs to be a consideration as to how it will continue to be maintained where we have growing budget deficits and reducing central government funding. Like other authorities, we have introduced a small fee to make these facilities financially viable.
Why is the payment card-only? Can I use cash?
Card-only systems reduce vandalism and theft, offer better hygiene, and are cheaper and safer to maintain than coin-operated units. The machines accept debit/credit cards and smartphones. Cash cannot be used at the new sites.
Who do I call if there is a problem when I use my card?
A dedicated EDDC Customer Service number will be provided at all the sites.
Who do I call if payment has been taken but I was unable to access?
A dedicated EDDC Customer Service number will be provided at all the sites.
Will volunteers have to pay for toilet use?
Yes. Due to the high volume of volunteers, we have across East Devon, we are not able to provide free use or any concessions. There are currently still toilets that have not been refurbished and are free to use in the area as well as facilities in businesses such as cafes.
I don’t have a bank card as I am a tourist visiting the area so how can I use the toilet? Can we purchase or use pre-paid cards?
We are hoping that this is something that the council can provide but we need to ensure its financially viable to offer. Other councils do not offer an alternative method of payment.
What other authorities in Devon charge for toilets?
Torbay Council: Public toilets - Torbay Council
Will the toilet blocks in the next phase also be chargeable?
Yes. Once rebuilt or refurbished, sites will incorporate charging arrangements. Information can be found here: Public toilets information - East Devon
What is a Changing Places Toilet?
This facility provides a toilet for people with particularly complex physical needs supported by their carers and are for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets.
Changing Places toilets are suitable for those with spinal injuries, muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis who often need extra equipment including a hoist and space for carers.
Read more about changing places toilets here:?https://www.changing-places.org/.??
How do you access the changing places toilet?
As per the Torbay council model, the changing places toilets are accessed via a code provided via a dedicated phone number to EDDC.
Accessibility
Will disabled users have to pay for the new toilets?
Yes. However, disabled users will not have to pay at those locations with existing disabled toilets that have not been refurbished, until such time as they are refurbished. Details can be found here: Public toilets information - East Devon
Can RADAR key users still access the new toilets?
We will not use RADAR keys for our new accessible toilets. This means anyone who needs to access a larger accessible toilet will be able to do so. RADAR keys will only need to be used at locations with existing disabled toilets that have not yet been refurbished. Details can be found here: Radar keys - East Devon
How are these toilets accessible for people with mobility, sensory or cognitive needs?
All new toilets are designed to meet modern accessibility standards, including wide doors, handrails, and baby-changing stations.
For details on EDDC-run toilets, and a map click here.
Maintenance & Cleanliness
Who will be responsible for cleaning and maintaining the toilets?
East Devon District Council will manage the new pay-to-use blocks. Ten other sites are being transferred to town/parish councils or local organisations who will take over management and cleaning.
Is there CCTV at all the new toilets?
Yes.
How often will the toilets be cleaned?
Toilets are cleaned daily, with frequencies varying across the district according to footfall/location etc.
How do I report an issue or a need for cleaning?
Please use this link: Report a fault at a public toilet - East Devon.
Location Decisions
Why are the toilets at Orcombe Point and other sites being closed?
Every year EDDC spends an average of more than £15,000 per toilet block on the day-to-day running of its public toilets, which became unsustainable.
In 2021, the authority reviewed the situation, recognising the need for significant investment in the toilets – especially with the challenges of meeting new hygiene standards and providing accessible facilities. This resulted in a growing funding gap between the cost of operation and available resources. Principles of provision were created to guide how we could still provide some public toilets, whilst making the necessary budget savings. These principles included proximity to other public toilets and usage.
EDDC held a public consultation, inviting feedback from residents, equalities groups, and parish and town councils on these principles and how the service should be provided considering the available resources. Their responses helped shape decisions about which toilets to retain and where investment should be made in a sustainable way.
Orcombe Point (Exmouth) was due to close on 31st March 2025 but has remained open to bridge the gap whilst Foxholes closed. The toilets will then close with a limited public toilet provision then reopening as part of the redevelopment of this site by a commercial tenant. It is anticipated that works will commence in autumn 2025.
Phase 1:
- Foxholes Car Park, Exmouth: Now Open.
- Lime Kiln (East End), Budleigh Salterton: Now Open.
- Lace Walk, Honiton: Now Open.
- West Walk, Seaton: Now Open.
Phase 2:
Phase 2 toilets will remain open until building works begin. This includes:
- Exmouth Magnolia Centre, London Inn, (new build).
- Exmouth Manor Gardens, (new build).
- Axminster West Street Car Park, (new build).
- Exmouth Queens Drive, (refurbishment).
Future phases:
Six more toilets' blocks at the following locations will be included in future developments:
- Budleigh Salterton Cliff Path, West End / Steamer / Rolle Rd, (new build).
- Sidmouth Connaught Gardens, (new build).
- Exmouth Phear Park, (new build).
- Sidmouth Market Place, (new build).
- Beer Jubilee Gardens, (new build).
- Sidmouth Triangle, (refurbishment).
Each block will include accessible facilities and baby changing units. Locations were chosen for their high footfall and public importance.
Any gaps in provisions, with regards to temporary toilets while building works take place, will be announced closer to the time.
Why is there no toilet provision at Cranbrook or Exmouth Marina?
These locations weren’t included in the current phase because the review was looking at existing sites and how to make them financially viable to run. The council does not operate an existing site in the marina or own a location to provide this. One of the imperatives of the 2021 review is that EDDC can no longer afford to provide all public toilet facilities, and other local authorities or businesses could assist.
Cranbrook was discussed as part of the toilet review in 2021, and it was decided that provision in new towns would be on a case-by-case basis and if public toilets can be incorporated into other public buildings or attractions this to be pursued. Cranbrook provision is being considered through delivery of the town centre community building, to be reviewed as part of future planning.
Consultation
Was there a public consultation?
Yes. A district-wide consultation took place in 2021, helping to shape the Public Toilet Review. Feedback was gathered from more than 1,300 residents, businesses, and stakeholders.
EDDC analysed the results and can be seen in EDDC's Agenda for Overview Committee on Thursday, 25th November, 2021, 6.00 pm - East Devon
See the Public Toilet Review Results 2021 here.
How many people responded, and how was their feedback used?
More than 1,300 people responded and all views were taken into account.
EDDC was operating 27 toilet facilities across East Devon but needed to make savings of £400k per year in order to balance its budget, which is a legal duty.
The majority of those who responded in the consultation preferred that no toilet facilities be closed and the EDDC Cabinet and Overview Committee were faced with some very difficult decisions.
The provision of public toilets is not a statutory obligation for local authorities, nevertheless it is something that we all appreciate having access to, so councillors and officers looked at the sites we had, which ones were a close walking distance, which ones were more used etc – and chose to invest and keep the toilets that were most needed with the limited funds. While we understand this is upsetting and that the pay-to-use system is not what everyone would have liked, this was the best option that could be agreed with the available funds.
Whilst many will not agree, we really hope you can understand the reasoning, when EDDC needs to protect so many frontline services.
EDDC analysed the results and can be seen in EDDC's: Agenda for Overview Committee on Thursday, 25th November, 2021, 6.00 pm - East Devon
Environmental & Safety Considerations
What’s being done to reduce anti-social behaviour near toilets?
The introduction of contactless, pay-to-use entry systems is intended to create a more secure and modern experience, which may help reduce misuse and vandalism compared to older, free-access facilities.
CCTV to the exterior of all new toilets will also assist.
Are there any sustainability or environmental features in the new toilets?
Water-saving appliances and energy-efficient fittings have been included in the design specification as standard; where appropriate, solar panels will be installed.
The focus is on providing modern, clean, and accessible toilets that are financially sustainable for the long term. Future-proofing measures and design improvements are included in the overall £3.15 million investment.