Durham County Council has put an old toilet block at Elvet Waterside on the market, hoping it can be redeveloped to complement the popular riverside area. The one-storey brown-brick building, believed to date from the late 1950s, has been unused for nearly 20 years and is currently fenced off, with a sign reading NO UNAUTHORISED ACCESS.
Graham Wood, the council’s economic development manager, said he was “optimistic” that the site would attract interest from potential buyers. He added that any redevelopment would ideally enhance the riverside path and surroundings.
Local residents have expressed hopes that the building could be transformed into a cafe with public toilets and a small play area. Janet George, a nearby resident, said: “If in order to get toilets that are available every day, we have to have a cafe then that is okay.” Linda Lovell, secretary of the Elvet Residents’ Association, highlighted how the area is popular with walkers, office workers on lunch breaks, and weekend strollers, adding that “coffee, ice cream and something to eat would be very welcome.”
The council is accepting offers for the site until 19 January. Mr Wood emphasised that the building’s prominent riverside location makes it an attractive opportunity, and he hopes a future development will complement the character of Elvet Waterside while providing a useful facility for the public.
