BY MIKE CHIPCHASE

A PUBLIC toilet block in Guisborough is to be reopened after more than ten years.

The toilets in Northgate are being refurbished by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council at a cost of £80,000. Work begins on Monday and will last for four to six weeks.

The new facilities will include disabled access and a baby changing area, as well as an office for the town's community safety wardens.

Coun Bob Stanway, the council's cabinet member for environmental improvement, said: "I'm afraid to say it's an absolute mystery why these toilets have been closed for over ten years.

"I'm delighted the work is going to start and that they'll be open in time for the summer visitors."

Coun Bill Clarke, the Mayor of Guisborough and chairman of the town council, said: "It's something that is desperately needed - if you'll pardon the pun - in the centre of the town.

"These toilets were closed for no apparent reason between ten and 15 years ago, and it's time something was done for the residents, tourists and the market traders."

The money for the refurbishment comes mainly from the borough council's £200,000 spending plan for public conveniences spread over three years.

It is hoped another block at Marske will be completed before the end of March.