As many as 13 public toilets are now shut at night in Fremantle.
By Geraldine Alphonse
Late-night visitors to Fremantle will no longer have access to public toilets after the city’s council shut down 24-hour street facilities.
The City of Fremantle has changed toilet closing times from round-the- clock to a 7pm loo lockdown.
It is understood that running costs, along with a push to provide a much cleaner and safer space for the community, are behind the council’s decision.
The council allocated $9.6 million for the replacement and renewal of community assets, which includes upgrades and changes to public toilets throughout the port city.
But not everyone is relieved. Skateboarders and many workers in the area are being affected by the change because they can’t find alternative open bathrooms at night. Pub toilets are meant only for staff and customers.
According to the National Public Toilet Map website of Fremantle, there are 16 public toilets, of which 13 have changed closing times.
One local worker, aged 30, who did not want to be named, is annoyed that her daily routine has been affected.
“Freo used to be a nice place to go for a walk and go out at night after work, but now the services are getting worse,” she said.
She says reduced access to outdoor facilities will mean that less people will visit Fremantle and the city will be dirtier if people use public areas when toilets are closed.
“Homeless people are just going to do their business on the footpath, and this measure doesn’t mean it will improve the community of Fremantle any better,” she said.
Fremantle is currently working on a $270 million development project for Kings Square Fremantle Renewal- one of the biggest projects in city’s history. Locals are wondering if this is why the city is cutting costs on public services.
Bounce News has sought comment from the City of Fremantle.