PUBLIC toilets at two mid Cheshire beauty spots will reopen from lockdown later this month.

Cheshire West and Chester Council will reopen the toilets at a number of sites across the borough on Friday, August 21.

They include the loos at Shakerley Mere and Little Budworth.

CWAC said it would reopen public facilities when it felt sure it was safe to do so in a statement issued on Thursday, May 28.

Cllr Louise Gittins, council leader, said: "While our parks and green spaces have remained open during the period of lockdown, their facilities were originally closed in order to stop the spread of coronavirus and therefore protect our residents.

"I am sure many residents are delighted they are now able to enjoy time outdoors using sports and other facilities after they reopened. Unfortunately, there are other services which must remain closed at the moment as the pandemic continues.

"We are reviewing our other services regularly and will, of course, make decisions based on how best to keep everyone safe."

However, councils were urged to reopen public toilets by Government in a letter sent back on Sunday, June 28.

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Simon Clarke MP, minister for regional growth and local government, said: "Public hygiene is of the upmost importance, especially during the coronavirus pandemic, and enabling residents to access toilets safely is vital. Handwashing is an important activity to help prevent the spread of the virus.

"Closed toilets may also impact disproportionately on certain groups who for health reasons rely on access to public toilets to be able to leave their homes. They can also make life difficult for young families and people who work outside."