A significant vandalism incident has left the public toilets at Gloucester bus station severely damaged and out of service. Doors, locks, and wash basins were deliberately smashed, forcing cleaners to close the facilities last week upon discovery of the damage.
Gloucester City Council is treating the matter with urgency, actively carrying out carpentry repairs. However, replacing the locks is proving more challenging due to their high cost, potentially delaying full restoration.
Councillor Sajid Patel (Conservative, Barton and Tredworth) has voiced strong concerns about the prolonged closure, highlighting the irony given the city’s recent multi-million pound investments in infrastructure, including the transport hub, Forum, Indigo Hotel, and parking areas. “It’s embarrassing that the city council can’t even fix the ongoing toilets issue! What a joke,” Patel remarked. “What kind of message does that send to visitors? It’s one shambles after another!”
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A council spokesperson confirmed the toilets, including those equipped for people with disabilities, remain closed until repairs are completed. “This was a serious act of vandalism causing significant damage,” they said. “We recognize the inconvenience caused and sincerely apologize to the public. We are doing everything possible to resolve this quickly and will provide updates as soon as possible.”
Deputy Leader Declan Wilson (Liberal Democrat, Hucclecot) condemned the anti-social behavior, calling it “thoroughly unacceptable and deeply frustrating.” He highlighted the impact on residents and visitors, especially at a time when substantial investments aim to make Gloucester’s city centre safer and more welcoming.
The council urges the public to report any suspicious activities to help prevent further incidents and restore essential community services promptly.