Brighton beach listed toilets set for major revamp

The toilets in the Madeira Colonnade on Madeira Drive - opposite the Volks Electric Railway Visitor Station - are set for a significant revamp, addressing the "cramped and dated feel."

The original application was submitted by Brighton and Hove City Council on October 9.

The current facility is described in the application as an "unpleasant environment" for both staff and public users, due to substantial water ingress from the pedestrian terrace above.

To counter this, external repairs will be made to the terrace in accordance with conservation practices.

Internally, aluminium rainwater hoppers - decorated to match the surrounding walls and ceilings - will be installed to catch water coming in from the deck above, and discharged into below-ground drains.

The renovation will take inspiration from 'comparable public conveniences of a similar age' (Image: Brighton and Hove City Council) The renovation will optimise the available space with a focus on improving accessibility.

The toilet is described as one of the city's "most heavily used facilities by people with disabilities", and the proposed changes aim to "greatly enhance" the available provisions.

At present, the spaces for accessible WC cubicles in both the male and female sections fail to meet modern space standards for wheelchair users.

The proposed design addresses these issues, including a refurbished Changing Places unit and family cubicles.

The refurbishment is said to present "an opportunity to reintroduce an architectural style more in-line with what may have existed when the public toilets were first built."

Proposals include installing urinals that take their cues from "comparable public conveniences of a similar age".

The toilets are right by the seafront on Madeira Drive (Image: Newsquest) Certain areas of ornate detailing, such as the original terrazzo flooring, will be retained and integrated into the new design.

The original building was constructed between 1927 and 1929.

The council's planning department recommended granting the listed building consent, on December 9, subject to conditions ensuring the preservation of the building's character.