A COUNCILLOR has slammed the decision to close the public toilets in a Cotswold town, calling it the most irrational decision he has ever seen. 

Meanwhile, a businessman has suggested the price to use the toilets could be increased.

If not, they could be used for a commercial venture to make them the most "instagrammabale" in the Cotswolds.

Letters have been sent to Cotswold District Council criticising its decision to close the public toilets in Stow's Market Square, leaving visitors to trek downhill to Maugersbury Road "at the extreme edge of the community".

The council announced the toilets would be closing on September 30 after it failed to reach a takeover agreement with Stow Town Council citing a 50% funding cut from the government as to why the facilities would have to close. 

In a letter written by long serving town councillor Alun White, to district council leader Joe Harris, Mr White said: "I can honestly say that your council's decision to close the square toilets leaving visitors to rely on the Maugersbury Road toilets at the extreme edge of the community and remote from all of Stow's attractions is one of the most blinkered, irrational decisions that I have ever witnessed.

"It strikes at the sustainability of Stow which our town council has striven to promote down the years.

"I urge you as leader of Cotswold District Council to reconsider this potentially disastrous proposal."

In response, the district council leader blamed the "unpalatable decisions" on government funding cuts and inflation, however would be necessary as in a few years time the council would be "risking bankruptcy".

Mr Harris continued: "These discussions remain ongoing, and I hope that we’ll be able to provide some good news with the town council in Stow.

"However if we can’t reach an agreement or they aren’t willing then the site will likely close."

Greg Forster, managing director of Embrace Building Wraps in Stow has written a letter to the council leader suggesting that the toilets be "clearly marked" or to increase the price to use them.

Mr Forster said: "If this doesn’t work and the numbers don’t add up then they should offer the square’s public toilets to a local enterprise (rent-free) to run as a commercial venture.

"This could transform the opportunity, making these toilets the finest, most Instagrammable public conveniences in the Cotswolds, worth sharing on social media.

"With flower planters, baskets, artwork from local schools, and welcoming lighting, this would ensure the town has a much-needed second set of facilities.

"Visitors would enjoy a positive experience, whether standing up or sitting down, as they arrive or depart Stow."