£160,000 investment brings new toilets and bus shelter to North Devon coast

New public toilets and a bus shelter have been unveiled on Ilfracombe’s seafront, delivering long-awaited improvements for both locals and visitors.

Located on St James' Place, the new building includes two standard toilet cubicles and one accessible unit, alongside a covered bus shelter.

It was formally handed over on Thursday, 1 August, during a short ceremony attended by the Chair of North Devon Council, Councillor Helen Walker, and the Mayor of Ilfracombe, Councillor Mark Fay, along with ward members from both councils.

The £160,000 project was funded by North Devon Council through its Rural England Prosperity Fund and forms part of a wider plan to improve public spaces and amenities in the town. 

It follows the launch of a new seafront play area earlier this year in March.

The facilities will now be operated by Ilfracombe Town Council.

Councillor Helen Walker, Chair of North Devon Council, said: “We have a shared vision for Ilfracombe to improve the public realm and these new conveniences and bus shelter are another important step. From the practical benefits of the bus shelter and accessible toilets to the thoughtful details reflecting the town's heritage, the building really elevates the seafront and will be a welcome addition for the town's residents, businesses and visitors.

"We are proud to work in partnership with Ilfracombe Town Council on this project and we will continue to work with them to bring public realm improvements to the town."

Designed by RGP Architects of Barnstaple, the building nods to local heritage with decorative finials that echo the original entrance kiosks at Ilfracombe Pier.

Construction was carried out by Grills Renovations and Refurbishments, based in Torrington.

Councillor Mark Fay, Mayor of Ilfracombe, added: “This town has needed public toilets on the seafront for many years - it’s something I’ve heard time and time again from both residents and visitors. I’m really pleased that we finally have a solution, thanks to North Devon Council, who have built these much-needed facilities and are leasing them to the town council. As of today (1 August), they are officially open.

“A conscious decision was made to install chargeable doors on the toilets. This is not about making money,  it’s a measure to help deter antisocial behaviour and vandalism, which are unfortunately ongoing issues.

“I also want to thank the local businesses who, over the years, have either quietly allowed people to use their facilities or openly welcomed them. Your community support has been greatly appreciated. But now, we finally have a dedicated and sustainable solution - thank you to everyone who made this possible!”