NALC announces new event to support councils facing £54m public conveniences challenge
We have announced a new addition to our online events programme, focused on one of the most pressing and often overlooked responsibilities facing parish and town councils, the provision of public conveniences.
Taking place on 11 November 2026, the event will explore the growing financial and operational pressures that parish and town councils face in maintaining these essential community facilities.
The event follows our 2026 research with the British Toilets Association, which revealed that parish and town councils are now managing around 2,150 public convenience sites across England. At an average cost of £25,000 per site each year, this represents a collective annual responsibility of more than £54 million.
For many councils, particularly smaller authorities, these facilities have not been proactively planned but transferred at short notice, often without accompanying funding or negotiation. While the removal of business rates on public toilets was a positive step, significant challenges remain, with ongoing maintenance, compliance, and operational costs placing considerable strain on limited budgets.
This timely event will provide a clear and practical overview of the national landscape, including emerging trends and the potential implications of further devolution and local government reorganisation. Attendees will also hear real-world examples from parish and town councils that are successfully managing and sustaining public convenience provision despite financial pressures.
The event will equip parish and town councils with a grounded understanding of the issue, alongside practical ideas and approaches that can be applied locally.
