The locks on a block of public toilets are being changed following complaints it was being used as cheap lodgings.
With heating, a wash basin, a peg and a mirror, the eight cubicles in Stamford Hill, Hackney, east London, are cheap accommodation at just 20p a night.Local businesses said there was competition for the cubicles and many wanted the more spacious disabled loo.
“Clearly using the public conveniences as overnight accommodation is not acceptable,” said a council spokesman.
She added the contractor was looking to modify the locks to prevent people from locking themselves in overnight.
Staff and local police will also ensure the cubicles are cleared when the facility closes at 8pm.
The £246,000 octagonal toilet, including a 6ft 8in by 4ft 10in disabled cubicle, was opened three months ago.
“While other councils have been closing their public toilets, we have made a considerable investment to improve ours,” said the spokesman.
“There is a balance which needs to be struck between accessibility and security and we hope to see an end to this problem quickly.”
