Pioneering Community Toilet Scheme expands to more than 70 locations

People visiting high streets in Richmond upon Thames can take advantage of over 70 free-to-use toilets, as we expands our pioneering scheme, the first of its kind in London, which first launched in 2004. 

The scheme, which has been adopted by some other councils across the capital, offers members of the public access to a wide network of toilets in participating local businesses and public buildings, including libraries. 

Cllr Julia Neden-Watts, Richmond Council’s Deputy Leader, said:  

"Our goal is simple: to ensure no one in Richmond upon Thames has to worry about finding a toilet while out in our public spaces.  

“For many people, the availability of a public toilet can mean the difference between being able to enjoy their day out or feeling constrained by the concern of not knowing where to go. Our Community Toilet Scheme is part of our ongoing work to create an inclusive and accessible place where everyone feels welcome, while supporting our local economy by making our high streets attractive to visitors and residents alike. Whether you're out shopping, visiting a park, or enjoying a day out with family, we want to ensure there’s a safe and accessible toilet nearby.  

“We invite more local businesses and venues to join the scheme and help us build a more connected and accessible borough for all. We additionally call on other London Councils to join us in helping to create as strong a network of public conveniences as possible for residents and visitors to the capital." 

The initiative, which allows the public to use toilets without having to make a purchase, aims to provide greater accessibility for those out and about in the borough. In exchange, participating businesses receive compensation from Richmond Council for the cost of opening their toilets to the public during normal opening hours.  

The expanded scheme features an interactive map, making it easier for people to find participating locations by area and filter options for accessibility features like wheelchair-friendly facilities and baby changing stations. Over half of the venues currently offer these services.  

In addition, each participating venue will clearly display a special window sticker at their entrance, marking them as official partners. Printed maps showing the locations of participating toilets will be available from early 2025 at Council buildings, libraries, leisure centres, and tourist information centres. 

We are encouraging more local businesses and venues to join the scheme and looking to increase provision in key areas listed on its website. Further information is available on the Toilets page, or by contacting the Community Toilet Scheme team directly at communitytoilets@richmond.gov.uk.