Dartmouth, UK – 16th October 2024

Dartmouth Town Council wishes to clarify specific details regarding the planning application for the refurbishment of the Royal Avenue Gardens’ toilets, particularly concerning the proposed commercial unit.

The planning application submitted is for a Class E classification and whilst the initial plans depicted the visual representation of a 21-seater café, this is only one example of a number of potential uses and not a specific planning application. Class E is a versatile classification that accommodates a wide variety of commercial uses, meaning the unit is not specified as a café.

Many commercial properties now fall under Class E, which provides flexibility in how spaces can be utilised. As such, the commercial unit within Royal Avenue Gardens could serve various purposes. Dartmouth Town Council will retain full control over which business or type of business rents the unit and will carefully consider the impact on the current surrounding businesses in Dartmouth.

What is Class E

Class E was brought in on the 1st September 2020 and covers the following uses:

1. for the display or retail sale of goods, other than hot food, principally to visiting members of the public,
2. for the sale of food and drink principally to visiting members of the public where consumption of that food and drink is mostly undertaken on the premises,
3. for the provision of the following kinds of services principally to visiting members of the public:
   1. financial services,
   2. professional services (other than health or medical services), or
   3. any other services which it is appropriate to provide in a commercial, business or service locality,

1. for indoor sport, recreation or fitness, not involving motorised vehicles or firearms, principally to visiting members of the public,
2. for the provision of medical or health services, principally to visiting members of the public, except the use of premises attached to the residence of the consultant or practitioner,
3. for a creche, day nursery or day centre, not including a residential use, principally to visiting members of the public,
4. for:
   1. an office to carry out any operational or administrative functions,
   2. the research and development of products or processes, or
   3. any industrial process,

being a use, which can be carried out in any residential area without detriment to the amenity of that area by reason of noise, vibration, smell, fumes, smoke, soot, ash, dust or grit.

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/757

Background:

Before 2018, there were 25 working toilets in Royal Avenue Gardens, which were primarily useful during large-scale events. However, maintaining such a large number of toilets throughout the year was deemed an ineffective use of taxpayers’ money, given that demand was considerably lower outside of major events.

Since 2018, there have been 11 non-working toilets in the women’s section of the current building. These toilets have remained closed to the public and have been used for spares and repairs to keep an ageing system operational until a complete refurbishment could take place.

The refurbishment of the toilet block in Royal Avenue Gardens will reduce the current number of working toilets from 13 to 11. However, the proposed changes will introduce a unisex baby-changing facility and an additional disabled toilet, including a Changing Places Unit, ensuring that the facilities meet modern accessibility standards.

Financial Impact:

The rental income generated from the commercial unit, as with all Dartmouth Town Council-owned properties, will contribute to the Town’s public funds. This additional income helps keep the precept (part of residents’ Council Tax) as low as possible.

Mayor’s Statement:

Mayor David Wells commented, “The refurbishment of the Royal Avenue Gardens toilets is a necessary investment for the town. Not only will the new facilities include a much-needed Changing Places Unit for those with accessibility needs, but the commercial unit will also generate revenue that will allow the Council to break even on the project within 10 to 12 years. This is about ensuring that both visitors and residents have proper facilities, whilst minimising the long-term cost to the public.”

Public Consultation:

To engage further with local residents and provide additional transparency, Dartmouth Town Council will hold a drop-in consultation on Tuesday, 29th October 2024, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the Clifton Room, The Guildhall, Victoria Road. This will give residents the opportunity to view the detailed plans and ask any questions. The Properties Manager will also be available to address public concerns.

For Media Enquiries:
Charlie Pritchard-Williams, Town Clerk
Email: clerk@dartmouthtowncouncil.gov.uk