Business owners say a new toilet block near the ferry wharf at Bundeena will be a big plus for tourism.
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The Sutherland Shire Council project in Bundeena Reserve is of a higher standard than most pubic toilets.
It is described as “a functional, aesthetically pleasing, safe and inclusive public facility”, which makes use of recycled materials, including the roof frame and spotted gum wall battens.
The block includes two cubicles, two ambulant cubicles, an inclusive accessible toilet, baby change area, two urinals and communal washbasins.
The washbasins “provide a space for social interaction while enjoying the view of beautiful Bundeena beach,” a council spokeswoman said.
“The high quality sustainable build was delivered in four months and a cost of $230,000, somewhat less than similar sized amenities previously built by council.
“There were clear objectives to increase security by maintaining sight lines while also improving hygiene through full cross flow ventilation and increased natural lighting.
“The project’s design also addresses crime prevention through environmental design principles to mitigate and prevent opportunities of vandalism.”
The project has been nominated for an Institute of Public Works Engineers Association award for design and construction of a local government project up $500,000.
Mayor Carmelo Pesce said council surveys had found public toilets in the shire had a high level of community expectation and a low level of satisfaction.
“This is a perception that council is keen to change,” he said.
President of the Bundeena and Maianbar Chamber of Commerce, Scott Dovey, said residents and tourists would appreciate the enhanced privacy, hygiene and security.
“Tourism is a real life blood for this village because it keeps our businesses afloat, which creates employment locally,” he said.
“If people come here and have a poor experience with basic facilities like toilets it’s not a good look, so this is just terrific.”
Maureen Keller, who has operated Beachhaven Bed and Breakfast in Bundeena for the past two decades, is delighted.
“After 20 years of living opposite the park, running a business and having people come to use our bathrooms, I’m very happy to have more facilities,” Mrs Keller said.
“The design is outstanding, I love it.
“It’s harder to vandalise due to the colouring and it has skylights.
“Everyone who lives here is very happy with it.”
