Full Breakdown
Cambridge Council Opens £1-Million “Squat-Style” Toilets for International Visitors
8/8/2026, 8:24:51 PM
New Facilities and Their Purpose
Cambridge city council, a Labour-run authority, has inaugurated a block of modern “squat-style” public toilets on Silver Street, opposite Queens’ College. Built for £1 million, the toilets replace a flood-prone 1980s facility near the River Cam and are intended to serve the high volume of tourists who visit the nearby Mathematical Bridge and other city attractions.
Background and Rationale
Council leader Katie Thornburrow explained that the £1 entry fee is meant to cover cleaning, maintenance and staffing, and to “discourage misuse” of the amenities. She noted that charging visitors for such services is common in many tourist destinations and that the new toilets provide options preferred by some international travelers.
Official Statements & Responses
Thornburrow emphasized that all other public toilets in Cambridge remain free, making the Silver Street site the sole exception. She argued that the fee allows the council to keep the facilities clean without relying on taxpayer funding, and that the addition of squat-style units responds to demand from coach-tourist traffic entering the city.
Public Reaction and Criticism
Local residents have expressed strong opposition to the charge. Heather Boyd, a 60-year-old resident of Orwell, said she would rather see a normal, free toilet than a “slick” one that costs a pound.
Cost and Fee Details
Verbatim Quotes
- “I certainly think if I'm going to spend £1, I'm not going to squat as well. That is absolutely crazy.” — Mrs Boyd
- “We also felt it appropriate to ask visitors to support the upkeep of these facilities by paying £1, a practice which is common in many other tourist destinations.” — Katie Thornburrow
