Network Rail to scrap toilet charge

It’s good news for commuters as Network Rail scraps toilet charges at Leeds, Manchester Piccadilly and Liverpool Lime Street stations and vows to end toilet charges at all 20 of its stations by 1st April 2019.

Network Rail own and operate the railway infrastructure in England, Wales and Scotland on behalf of the nation, with 20 of Britain’s busiest railway stations under its management. The move is part of a nationwide drive to make its stations “more friendly, accessible and open”.

The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering’s (CIPHE) ‘Love Your Local Lav’ campaign has been highlighting the devastating impact a loss of public toilet facilities can have on society, local communities and the economy.

Kevin Wellman, CIPHE CEO said, “The news that Network Rail is scrapping its toilet charge is most welcome. Network Rail generated £4.8m in the 2016/17 financial year by charging members of the public to use toilet facilities at its stations. For such a large publicly owned body to forgo a lucrative revenue stream - for the greater good of its customers - is to be applauded.”

“We hope other stations will follow Network Rail’s lead and will continue our call to Government and local councils to preserve and improve public facilities.”

Want to get involved in the Love Your Local Lav campaign? Find out more at www.ciphe.org.uk/loveyourlav