DRUG use and vandalism at a public toilet in Whitehaven has forced it to close.

The facilities outside the Market Hall were temporarily closed three times in 24 hours, as vandals caused damage and drug users left paraphernalia there.

The toilet, which has been repeatedly been targeted, will now remain shut while the situation is assessed. 

Copeland Council says vandalism that caused closure on May 16 included cigarette burns on the toilet seats and flooring. This cost the council £300 to clean and replace the damaged fixtures.

Later that day, the security alarm was activated, resulting in needing to call for an engineer to help, costing the council £50 to deactivate.

Drug paraphernalia was also found in the toilets on the same day, forcing the facility to be closed again while the area was cleaned, cleared and checked. 

Copeland Council said the closure caused inconvenience to residents receiving services at the Market Hall and to tourists visiting the town.

Dave Banks, portfolio holder for customers and communities, said: "We are very concerned that a publicly requested facility for the residents and visitors of the town is being seriously misused and abused. When incidents like this happen we have no other option but to close the toilets temporarily for safety and repairs.

"I would urge anyone who has information on the damage caused or the drug abuse to contact Whitehaven Police or the council on 01946 598300."

The public toilets in Whitehaven are normally open during the council’s office hours. However, the toilet located on the outside of the Market hall is currently closed whilst the council safety assesses the situation.

The public toilet inside the building is still open during working hours.