“Toilet Crisis” in Harold Hill As Elderly Residents Say Lack of Facilities Is “Humiliating”

Residents in Harold Hill are raising growing concerns over the lack of public toilet facilities, with some elderly residents saying they are being forced into humiliating situations simply because there is nowhere else to go.

The issue was raised at a recent Gooshays Ward Police Panel meeting, where one attendee described how older residents have had to resort to using bushes and secluded areas when caught short while out in the town centre. The resident argued such actions should not be treated as a crime when there is no public provision available.

For many locals, the problem stems from the closure of former public toilets at Hilldene Shops. The shopping area once had free public “Gents” and “Ladies” facilities at the west end of The Arcade, off Farnham Road. When these were shut and later converted into retail units, a paid unisex toilet was installed near the Harold Hill War Memorial, leaving what residents say is a large shopping centre without accessible public facilities.

It is believed that at the time of the closure, the local Labour Party members said it would campaign against the loss and proposed a “shops programme” that would see designated businesses allowing members of the public to use staff toilets. Residents say the plan never materialised and question whether such a scheme would ever be practical, particularly given safety and operational concerns for businesses.

A petition has now been launched at Harold Hill Library calling for proper public toilets to be installed at Harold Hill’s main shopping centre, and supporters say it is receiving strong backing from the community.

The petition also highlights the strain being placed on local facilities, including St George’s Church and the library, where increasing numbers of people are using toilets intended primarily for visitors. Staff are reportedly facing additional cleaning demands due to the high volume of use.

Residents point out that other shopping centres across the borough still provide free public toilets, including those in Romford and Upminster, and argue Harold Hill deserves the same level of provision.

For many in Harold Hill, the message is clear. Access to basic public amenities should not be a luxury, and residents say urgent action is needed to address what they see as an unacceptable situation.

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!

We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.