Entrepreneurs come forward to take over Leverton loos

Both have catering experience and are interested in developing a cafe at the lay-by site.

The council publicised the toilets to let or buy after Lincolnshire County Council gave notice of its intention to withdraw funding for the toilets which the borough authority maintains.

The premises are available in a pleasant location which already has proven footfall.

The council wants to hear from anyone with an interest in taking over responsibility for the public toilets. It is a substantial building with business development potential.

The council wants to maintain public access to the toilets, but someone taking on responsibility for the building would have the opportunity to potentially use the rest of the space to open a cafe or run another suitable business.

Leverton lay-by is a popular landscaped stop-off rest point for drivers and their passengers and there is potential to provide indoor and outdoor refreshments.

Under Government austerity measures the council cannot afford to keep the toilets open, but is reluctant to close them and is exploring every opportunity to retain them.

Coun Paul Skinner, the council’s cabinet member with responsibility for public toilets, said: “It may sound unlikely but this has sound prospects. This is a substantial building with room for more than just the public toilets. It presents an opportunity for someone to develop a thriving business, perhaps offering refreshments to travellers on their journeys with the added bonus of much-needed relief for those on the road by way of the public toilets already in existence.

“Anyone taking this on will have to get over the idea that this has only ever been a public toilet. It will suit an entrepreneur with vision and the right spirit of progress. The alternative, sadly, will be to close and demolish the building.”

If you know of anyone who may be interested please contact George Bernard, Martin Potts or Matt Fisher on 01205 314200.