LABOUR councillors in Bath and North East Somerset are calling for action over a “frankly ridiculous” lack of public toilets in the area.

The group of seven councillors who form the opposition on Liberal Democrat dominated Bath and North East Somerset Council is tabling a motion at a full meeting of the council on Thursday, July 14, calling for it to regularly review its public toilet provision.

The group said there had been 27 public toilet sites across Bath and North East Somerset in 2011 but were just 20 listed on the council website today.

Labour group leader Robin Moss (Westfield) said: “This is about dignity, health, and economic sense. When one in five of us limit trips out, and over half drink less just to avoid needing the loo, we’re failing residents and visitors. It’s time for a public toilet strategy that reflects today’s needs.

“And it’s not just about toilets — it’s about who can go out, stay out and enjoy life. It shouldn’t matter whether you’re a parent, a pensioner, if you’ve got a disability or a health condition, you deserve the dignity of knowing you can find a clean, open loo.”

Tour guide Ed Browning said: “Working in tourism in Bath, where tourism is such a major part of our income and identity, I find the lack of public toilets embarrassing and frankly ridiculous.”

There are 16 council public toilets managed by Healthmatic which cost 20p to use in Bath and North East Somerset, and four operated by community organisations and parish councils.

But there are also privately-operated public toilets in the city, such as the Southgate Plaza public toilets on Railway Street.

Mr Moss said: “We’re asking every councillor: will you vote for dignity and inclusion, or will you leave people locked out of their own villages, towns and this world-famous city?”