A Ceredigion councillor has condemned repeated vandalism of Aberaeron's public toilets, warning that the destruction is putting lives at risk and placing unnecessary pressure on businesses and residents.

Cllr Elizabeth Evans, who represents Aberaeron and Aberarth, spoke to Cambrian News following the reopening of the town's Masons Row toilets, where £9,185 was spent repairing vandalism and arson damage in March.

Cllr Evans said the damage had extended into the building's roof space, raising concerns because of its proximity to an adjoining home. "When I looked into the roof space, you could see it was all black, that is right next door to a house, it could have been a very, very different outcome. And that frightens me, it really does frighten me."

She praised council officers for their efforts to reopen the facilities, explaining that insurance negotiations and extensive repairs had contributed to the lengthy closure.

However, she warned that vandalism remained a persistent problem, with another recent incident involving toilet rolls being set alight at separate facilities in the town. "It's a constant battle," she said. "But it's really important that we keep the toilets open."

Beyond the financial cost, Cllr Evans stressed that losing public toilets could restrict people's independence, particularly those with medical conditions requiring immediate access. "There are some people that do not leave the house unless they know that there's a toilet that they can go to," she said.

Local businesses also stepped in during the closure, allowing members of the public to use their facilities. One business even opened its staff toilets to bus drivers, something Cllr Evans described as an example of the town's community spirit. "I'm very, very grateful to them," she said, acknowledging that businesses' patience had understandably begun to wear thin.

The councillor also defended Aberaeron Town Council's longstanding reluctance to assume responsibility for additional public toilets from Ceredigion County Council.

Although the town council has helped fund the seasonal operation of the South Beach toilets, it resisted taking over other facilities over concerns that residents would shoulder the costs of amenities serving thousands of tourists.

"We thought it was unfair that the people of Aberaeron have to pay that bill," she explained. "So we said no. Other towns have taken some over. It's a choice for them."

Cllr Evans argued that public conveniences should remain a county council responsibility, particularly in communities heavily dependent on tourism. "I think there is a role, it's a public health role for the local authority," she said. "It's also so important in a tourist destination to have public toilets that are open and accessible."

Despite her frustration at escalating vandalism, Cllr Evans emphasised the importance of engaging constructively with young people rather than condemning an entire generation. "Always, always I speak to them with respect because that's how they should be spoken to."

She welcomed additional police patrols and highlighted the need for recreational opportunities.

For Cllr Evans, protecting public toilets is ultimately about protecting the community she serves, ensuring residents and visitors alike can continue to enjoy Aberaeron without unnecessary restrictions.