Campaign to get public conveniences reopened on Fleetwood seafront

Fed-up residents say the nearest alternative facilities are not close enough for people using the popular boating lake, the model yacht lake and the nearby kiosks.

So the the Friends Of Fleetwood Yacht Lake Public Conveniences Group has resolved to renovate and reopen the toilets near Dolly's Kiosk, on Laidleys Walk, which will offer amenities to men, women and disabled people, both residents and visitors, and baby changing facilities.

To achieve that, the group needs grant support and and is applying to various funding sources, as well as planning its own fundraising events.

The Friends group has a constitution, a committee and a bank account and has costed the total project at £17,820.

Although Wyre Council, which owns the facilities, has no plans to re-open the toilets itself the authority is working with the Friends and has allowed them to lease the facilities at a peppercorn rent of just £1 a year, to allow the project to move forward.

Coun Brian Crawford, who serves Warren ward on Fleetwood Town Council, helped establish the group and said: "We have now obtained three estimates for refurbishing the amenities to serve all members of the community - the disabled, families and visitors.

"Obviously we are now seeking appropriate funding for the capital project, although we do have ongoing funding for running costs.

"It's a really worthwhile scheme which will benefit a lot of people, and if anyone wants to help they are welcome to join us."

The group has now put in an application to Fleetwood Town Council for £7,000 grant, and already has combined funds of £3,500, but will need additional funds of £7,320, which it is actively seeking to obtain.

The project is divided into three phases, including one which involves renovation work.

Gillian Gallagher, who runs Dollys Ice Cream and Snack Kiosk close to the boating lake, is treasurer of the group, says the facilities are in the perfect spot and are badly needed.

William Hargreaves, chairman of the Friends, says: "We have volunteers set up ready and this project will be Covid-compliant and will serve everyone who needs to use it.

"We are now looking to obtain the remaining funds we need.

"If anyone wants to join our group or has any ideas for raising funds, I would love to hear from them."

William can be contacted by email on [email protected]