Richard Ottaway MP: Press releasses

3 August 2004

OTTAWAY DEMANDS TOILETS FOR CHILDREN IN GRANGE PARK

Richard Ottaway, Conservative MP for Croydon South, is appalled to learn that children are having to go to the toilet behind bushes in Grange Park because the toilets are closed.

"The summer holidays are an ideal time for children to be out and about and
enjoying playing in the local parks. However, anyone with children knows that
the availability of toilets is an essential part of family days out and local
residents tell me that their children are having to squat behind bushes when they
need to use the toilet. In my view this is totally unacceptable."

"Due to the very high level of vandalism the toilets in Grange Park are effectively
closed since they can only now be opened for specific events. I am appalled at
the effect the repeated acts of anti social behaviour by local yobs is now having
on the innocent lives of young children."

"Whilst acknowledging that it is sensible to stop pouring Council tax payers
money into repairing the repeatedly vandalised toilets in Grange Park, it is
deplorable that the Council have not made arrangements to open the toilets
during the holidays. I call on the Council to rectify this situation as a matter of
urgency."

ENDS

For further information please call 020 7219 6392