The Economist article, 'Loosing It', from August 12th, 2023, delved into Britain's shifting approach to public toilets and their historical context. There has been a growing disappearance of accessible public toilets, which is causing some concern, especially impacting pregnant women, caregivers of young children, and those with medical conditions.
 
In the past, British toilets 'used to be admired for their craftsmanship and attention to detail', but unfortunately, now they are 'going down the drain'. The Victorian era became known for improvements in sanitation, and London led this 'sanitary revolution, ' part of which was the introduction of public conveniences. This was considered very progressive and, of course, very convenient at the time. They gave people more freedom, which could now be taken for granted. Safe toilet or restroom spaces allowed people to go 'out and about' for longer periods and enjoy relaxing leisure time, which was especially beneficial to Victorian women.
 
The article recommends visiting the old but very grand gentlemen's toilet in Wesley's Chapel, London, and explains that 'once, British toilets were the bee's knees'. For example, the toilet bowls bear the name of the man who made them, Thomas Crapper or, as the article states, 'THE VENERABLE THOMAS CRAPPER.' And 'England's lavatories were flush with admiration'. Britain had shown the world how to design first class plumbing and sanitary ware during this time. The Victorians also built the city of London's sewage system, which has proven to stand the test of time. In fact, it only recently needed an upgrade. Although Crapper is the name linked with the flush toilet, the popular attribution of the term 'crap' to him is likely an urban legend. However, he did play a significant role in advancing toilet technology and promoting sanitary practices.
 
The Economist emphasises their decline: 'today, they're going down the drain faster than a soggy biscuit. You'll find more Victorian charm in a teaspoon than in the grotty state of current conveniences.' Public toilet facilities in the UK are no longer given priority in cleanliness or availability. From a financial perspective, maintaining public toilets has become costly for local councils, leading to closures. The lack of public facilities has even increased public urination, causing concerns about cleanliness and public health. The article also highlights that some historic public toilets have been repurposed into wine bars or have fallen into complete disrepair.
 
In recent times, even the venerable firm of Victorian sanitary engineers, Thomas Crapper & Co, was enthusiastically saved from oblivion by Simon Kirby and Warrick Knott in the late 1990s to become once again a manufacturer of period sanitary ware of the highest quality.
 
Campaigners and experts are now increasingly concerned about the consequences of the declining public toilet infrastructure. The absence of accessible toilets disproportionately affects certain groups, such as women, caregivers, and people with disabilities. The closure of public toilets raises questions about inclusivity, public health, and the overall livability of urban environments. You cannot guarantee they will be functional or clean even where they still exist. So, will the British public toilet be saved and valued again in our modern society?
 
Some private businesses, like public houses, such as the Wetherspoon's pub chain, have recognised the need for maintaining clean and spacious restroom facilities for patrons. However, these private solutions are insufficient to address the broader public need. Do you sometimes feel obliged to buy a drink if you need the toilet?
 
In conclusion, the disappearing public toilets in Britain have historical roots dating back to the Victorian era's sanitary revolution. The lack of legal obligation for councils to provide public toilets has contributed to their decline over the years. This situation underscores the need for sustainable solutions that address the challenges faced by various segments of society in accessing public toilets.
 
And just like that, you have it, a tale of how Britain, the land of the ingenious flush, has managed to create a comedy of convenience – or rather, inconvenience. The proud porcelain pioneers of yore have been replaced with rusty chains and closed gates, leaving a nation wading through a sea of missed opportunities.
 
We welcome your comments on the great British toilet past, present and future...
 
Note:
To read the full sad tale of 'Loosing It' and the current state of British public toilets from The Economist, see the online link below or, as I prefer, read it in The Economist printed magazine itself. FYI, you can still buy old single copies of print editions online.
 
Unlike our modern equivalents, Wesley Chapel shows the quality of traditional British sanitary ware and plumbing that was built to last. Interested to know more? Then see the link to my previous SalvoNEWS story: 'Armchair 'expert' on traditional sanitary ware and other thoughts'.