*Public toilets in Kilkee. Photograph: Páraic McMahon
New public toilets are “urgently” needed, senior officials in Clare County Council have said.
An update on the provision of new public toilets in Kilkee was sought by Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) at a recent meeting of the West Clare Municipal District. In a written reply, Director of Service, Leonard Cleary outlined that the local authority is “researching a range of property options to improve the delivery of this service”.
Cleary said negotiations were “at an advanced stage but not yet finalised”. He highlighted that “when the most beneficial property is secured” the project would be let by the Property Unit with input from the West Clare MD and Environmental Department. “It is acknowledged that this service is urgent to meet visitor needs”.
“I would like to see the public toilets in Kilkee sooner rather than later. There was a delay in Lahinch, I wouldn’t like the same to happen again. Kilkee needs the toilet, it’s important we get them soon,” Cllr Keating commented. His party colleague, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) said “the impact of the new toilet facility in Lahinch is extraordinary. The reaction has been universally positive”.
Location was stressed as the key factor by Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) who seconded the motion. “There was nobody roaring about the location in Lahinch, we won’t have it in front of anybody’s house in Kilkee”. West of The Strand was suggested by Cllr Keating as a possible spot for the toilets.
Conversations with relevant property owners are continuing. “I would like there to be a more definite answer,” Cleary stated. “It is urgent. We would like to follow up on the success of the Lahinch toilets”.
