Calls for public toilets revamp in Wooler after £315,000 spent on conveniences at Seahouses and Holy Island

A £315,000 revamp of the public toilets in Seahouses and on Holy Island was approved by Northumberland County Council earlier this year.

However, Wooler Parish Council chairman Mark Mather feels some of the money should be used to improve the conveniences at the town’s bus station.

He said: “I think there has been a ridiculous amount of money spent on two sets of toilets on the coast and I don’t see why our toilets can’t have some form of investment.”

It was agreed to put the request to Northumberland County Council.

Meanwhile, a meeting about the future of the former first school site has been arranged with the county council in early September.

"Hopefully we can push for an extension of the graveyard on that site before any other development is done,” said Cllr Mather.

An increase in the number of people using the riverside area was welcomed but concerns have been raised about parking on the grass. It was agreed to look at signage as a first step towards preventing it.

The parish council’s work to improve the riverside area will continue later this year after members agreed to buy a further 5,000 crocus bulbs and 1,000 daffodil bulbs. Some of the daffodil bulbs could also be used at The Tory.

The success of the recent farmers’ market was welcomed but concerns were raised about the disabled parking and electric charging point spaces being unavailable.

"We want to be seen as an inclusive town, not an exclusive town,” said Cllr Mather.

Cllr Caroline Cumming raised concerns about the obscured view for vehicles exiting the Ryecroft junction. The concern will be passed on to the county council’s highways inspector.

Cllr Kevan Curry also reported further complaints about litter at Bryson’s Park.

"It’s a right mess,” he said.

Residents with concerns were asked to report them to Northumbria Police.

The work of the council-led community coronavirus team continues but the number of medication deliveries has slowed. Members agreed it should continue for another month before being reviewed.

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