PORTABLE toilets could be installed close to a riverside beauty spot in Gainford as a measure to tackle anti-social behaviour.
Hordes of visitors descended on the riverside beach areas near Gainford spa to cool off during hot weather in the summer, but left rubbish strewn around and excrement in the undergrowth.
The Riverside Trust and residents organised several litter picks to remove the litter and human waste but have called for measures to be put in place. David Burton, from the Riverside Trust, told members of Gainford Parish Council at their latest meeting the instances of anti-social behaviour was not a “seasonal problem” .
He added: “We are going to need some help with this financially. In my opinion I think we need bigger bins and maybe a recycling bin.
“The idea of taking bins away, like the National Trust, and asking people to take their litter home with them won’t work.
“The defecation issue you can’t get away from.
“If they [visitors] are down from Darlington, they have nowhere to go. I think something sensible like a portable toilet [might work]- ugly as they are.”
Mr Burton suggested the toilets would not need to be in place for the whole summer, but could be put there when hot weather was forecast.
He added: “As far as positioning, I can’t think of anywhere other than the ramp at the bottom of the school.”
Chairman Cllr Andrew Wilkinson said: “I think the toilets need more discussion and there may be a solution for the village that may be more long term. It needs a comprehensive plan.”
Resident Patrick Orme said: “I think a portable toilet that is only there some of the time is not a good idea. What if you need to use it on a Thursday, but it won’t be in position until Saturday?”
Another resident, Ken Hodgson, said Durham County Council provides facilities for travellers during the migration to Appleby Fair and suggested they should be asked to step in.
But clerk Martin Clark said: “Durham County Council won’t do that.”
The parish council will raise the issue with officials at Durham.
