THE decision to keep public toilets in Stow's Market Square has been called "absolutely right" by residents. 

Months after Cotswold District Council announced it would be closing Stow's Market Square public toilets, it announced hat following an outcry from residents they would remain open. 

The decision has been hailed as "absolutely the right one" despite CDC confirming that instead, the public toilets on Maugersbury Road would close. 

No official date has been confirmed for their closure however CDC councillor Dilys Neill has confirmed that they will remain open until at least after the Stow Fair on October 24. 

Councillor Neill said: "I think it is what most people in Stow wanted. 

"There were negotiations between the district and town councils about the town council taking them over but it was too much of a financial burden which I understand. 

"I was at a town council meeting on Monday (October 14) and on the whole everyone was happy. 

"Obviously residents would prefer if both toilets remained open but it is no longer financially viable and difficult decisions have to be made. "

CDC reversed its decision after receiving a petition from residents with more than 1,000 signatures. 

Maggie Deacon, former Stow Town Council Councillor said: "I'm delighted CDC is keeping the ones in the square because it would have had a terrible impact on disabled people and families, or anyone who isn't up to walking long distances. 

"It's a shame we are losing the ones in the car park but if we have to keep one, the ones in the square are the best. 

"The ones in the car park cater less to the town and more to the car park users so it's the right decision. 

"I think CDC need to look into making the toilets one person one coin instead of people holding the doors open for others.

"That way it might be more economically viable."

Speaking earlier this month CDC councillor Mike Evemy, cabinet member for finance, said: “Cotswold District Council's challenging financial position has not changed, so we have to consider proposals to streamline our services. 

"We are not required to provide public toilets, but recognise their importance to residents and visitors to our market towns.

“I’m pleased that we have been able to retain the Market Square toilets in Stow as the representations have shown how much they are valued by residents and visitors to the town.”