Newquay's public toilets are to remain open after residents pledged their support.

Newquay Town Council launched a public consultation after deputy mayor Drew Creek put forward a proposal to close all the public conveniences apart from the accessible toilets, which he believes could save the town around £30,000 annually but the survey showed residents were happy to fund the facilities.

Fifty-five per cent of the 271 people who responded to the survey wanted to keep all the public toilets open year round and 45 per cent were for reducing the number of toilets open in the autumn and winter to reduce costs.

Councillors voted to keep all the town’s public toilets open at the council’s environment and facilities meeting on Thursday following the publication of the consultation.

Chairman Cllr Andy Hannan said: “It was a clear message from the public to keep all the public toilets open although there was a low turnout. 

“The people who were prepared to voice their opinions are what matters, not the rest that don’t bother. 

“There is no point having a public consultation if you don’t listen and act on the result.”

Cllr Creek added: “Only 271 residents responded to the four week consultation just over one per cent of the residents. 

“Forty-five per cent were for reducing the number of toilets open in the autumn and winter to reduce costs. 

“Over three quarters of respondents liked the idea of exploring a community toilet scheme where local businesses allow their facilities to be used for free.

“Thank you to all those that did take part. 

“Currently Newquay Town Council spends £1,000 per day keeping its 14 toilet locations open. 

“I still feel there is a balance to be struck here, keeping the toilets open but saving the taxpayers money by being more strategic and increasing efficiency.”