TOILET TROUBLES . . . Craig Peacock hopes Gretna’s former customer service centre can be converted into public toilets
The derelict block in Kirtle Place was demolished four years ago to make way for business units, with no replacement amenities provided.
And supporters attending Gretna Festival last weekend also noted the lack of public conveniences.
One visitor, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “Three lady pensioners visited Gretna for the gala on Saturday, which they enjoyed.
“But problems arose when they couldn’t find toilet facilities — even the ‘community’ centre was closed. The so-calledwedding capital and no public facilities.”
And responding to the observation, a Dumfries and Galloway Council spokesman said: “There aren’t any public toilets in Gretna. DGFirst Facilities Management is not aware of any plans to provide a public toilet in Gretna.”
But Annandale East and Eskdale councillor Craig Peacock, who lives in the town, says there are hopes to convert the former customer service centre, which is also in Kirtle Place, into public toilets.
He said: “I am disappointed that DGFirst have said there are no plans or intentions to do anything with this building and will hold them to account on the matter.
“We know that money is tight but I just want the opportunity to have costings done so, as a community, we can access funders to help Gretna.”
He added: “I am well aware that the council do not have to provide public toilet provision but in some communities they do — Gretna is a big tourist area and will only increase in footfall.
“I constantly get complaints from shop owners and members of the public on this matter and hear of people urinating in public places because they are so desperate.”
Meanwhile, fellow ward councillor Archie Dryburgh says options are being investigated as part of the town’s regeneration programme, but funding will have to be obtained.
He added: “It’s very early days but we hope to get a community group to take it on, similar to the Richard Greenhow Centre management committee.
“We have taken the building off the council’s asset sale list as we want to establish a public toilet block for Gretna as a lot of people come here for weddings.”
