Documenti di Didattica
Documenti di Professioni
Documenti di Cultura
Environmental
5 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 51
5.1 OVERVIEW 52
5.2 ACTION PLAN 53
5.3 CAPITAL WORKS PLAN 55
APPENDICES 57
© Planisphere 2017.
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STATUS VERSION CHECKED PM CHECKED PD DATE RELEASED
Draft Public Toilet Strategy for Discussion 1 DF JMR/JLR 18/07/17
OVERVIEW
Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
The Greater Bendigo Public Toilet Strategy sets out a strategic framework to
guide the delivery and upgrade of public toilets across the municipality and
establishes a vision that is consistent with Council’s aspiration to ‘create the
world’s most liveable community’.
Public toilets are vital community assets that contribute to Core elements of the Strategy are:
the health and wellbeing of residents, workers and visitors
to Greater Bendigo. Often unacknowledged, public toilets ›› Summary of policy context
support the vitality and accessibility of public places and ›› Key findings from consultation and engagement
spaces. ›› Summary of issues and opportunities by theme
The Greater Bendigo Public Toilet Strategy sets out a ›› Recommendations for upgrades and improvements to
Public Toilet Strategy
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Council will provide high quality public toilets that are clean and safe and that
cater for the needs of all residents, workers and visitors to Greater Bendigo.
community spaces.
There are opportunities to improve the process of
Some toilets are sited within public buildings such as
planning for new facilities, the standard of existing toilets
libraries or pavilions. These toilets are often only available
and improve the efficiency of the network throughout
during specified hours such as during business hour or
Greater Bendigo.
8 weekends, in addition to this users may be required to
pass through a control point to access a toilet. The Greater Bendigo Public Toilet Strategy provides a
Greater Bendigo City Council
Draft
Municipal Health Greater Bendigo
& Wellbeing Walking &
Plan Plan Greater Cycling Strategy
Bendigo
(In Progress)
Public Space
Draft
Strategy
Greater Bendigo
Community Plan
Local Plans
Municipal Strategies
Community Frameworks
COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT
Consultation and engagement with the public and other Feedback received from the community following
key stakeholders was undertaken between April and the release of the Draft Strategy identified a number
May 2017 for a period of 4 weeks. The purpose of this of suggestions for public toilet facilities across the
consultation was to identify key issues associated with municipality.
existing facilities, opportunities for improvement and
Suggestions were largely focused on the installation of
understand community priorities.
new public toilet facilities within reserves, trails and along
A range of consultation methods was used throughout busy transport routes.
the consultation period to engage with different users and
Feedback from more than 1,000 participants was received
stakeholders. This allowed the project team to collect a
during the issues and opportunities consultation period.
broad range of views and perspectives.
The diagram below summarises the types of consultation
Key consultation activities for this stage of consultation activities undertaken and the approximate levels of
included: engagement.
Public Toilet Strategy
10
Resident Attendees Online Survey Responses
20 Council
4 Business
Attendees
Attendees
4 Business Attendees
60+ Engagements with the Community 90+ Comments on The Bendigo Advertiser Facebook
Listening Posts: 35 Hard Copy Survey Responses Other Media: 70+ Comments on Council Facebook
60+(Bendigo,
3 Locations Engagements with the Community
Heathcote, Marong) 1390+
Individual written submissions
Comments on The Bendigo Advertiser Facebook
Elmore
Raywood
12
Greater Bendigo City Council
Goornong
Marong
BENDIGO
Axedale
Strathfieldsaye
Lockwood South
Heathcote
Mia Mia
Redesdale
PUBLIC TOILET
AUDIT
In 2010, Council undertook a condition audit of 49 of its Toilets that were in poor (or lower) condition that also
public toilet assets to assess building structure, condition achieved a low usage score were:
and usage.
›› Allingham Street Drill Hall Toilet Block
Usage was measured on a scale of 1 (high) to 3 (low). ›› Londonderry Reserve Toilet Block
High usage facilities were used every day whilst low
›› South Bendigo Progress Association Toilet Block
facilities were used once or twice a week.
Recommendations/actions for these toilets is outlined in
An audit on the overall condition of the toilets was also Chapter 5 with toilets that are least used and in poorest
undertaken which scored toilets on a scale of 0 (brand condition prioritised for removal or upgrade.
new) to 10 (failed).
Facilities in Need
Heathcotewith public
In regard to the overall themes, locations
Areas in Need of
and have identified priorities based on the community
toilets identified as most in needInformation
of an upgrade were:
Coles, Rosalind
feedback and other data sources. Chapter 5 outlines the
Hargreaves
Facilities in StNeed
›› Multi-storey Car Park (Hargreaves Street)
Heathcote
Hargreaves
Multi-Storey Areas in Need of
Target
Information
of Improvement Carpark RosalindNew Public Toilets
[non-Council
14
Centre Mall
Coles, Lake Bath Owned]
Hargreaves
Weroona
Lyttleton Tce
Lane Park Coles,
Greater Bendigo City Council
Mall
Lyttleton Tce
Hargreaves HeathcoteHargreaves
St Multi-Storey
Information
Target
Rosalind
Centre Carpark Coles, [non-Council
Mall Lake
Weroona Lyttleton Tce
Owned] Bath
Hargreaves Park
Lane Cole
Lyttleto
Most Used Mall
Hargreaves Public Toilets
Hargreaves
St Multi-Storey
Target
[non-Council
Carpark
Mall Lake
Weroona
Owned]
Hargreaves
Mall
Most Used Market
Public Toilets Place
Library [non-Council Owned]
Legend
Most Used
Size of circles represent the level of response to the survey
Coles, Market Myer
Public
[non-Council Toilets
question. The larger the circle, the more frequent the
response.
Lyttleton Tce Place Owned]
Lake
Weroona
Facilities In Need Of Improvement
Library [non-Council Owned]
ͧͧ Gaps within the City Centre public toilet network. ͧͧ Improve the connectivity and distribution of the
ͧͧ Not all regional open spaces or regional level public toilet network at key locations.
playgrounds have direct access to public toilets. ͧͧ Install new toilets and upgrade existing toilets at
ͧͧ Should all rural townships be serviced by a public key open spaces and playspaces in accordance to
toilet? the relevant hierarchy.
ͧͧ Co-located facilities do not offer the same level of ͧͧ Review the provision of public toilets outside the
Per Week
24% 25%
20% 24%
13% 20%
16% 13% 16%
Public ToiletToilet
Public Usage Usage
ek Weekly Less Than Once Per Month Fortnightly Hardly Ever
e Per Week Weekly Less Than Once Per Month Fortnightly Hardly Ever
Less Than Once Per Hardly Ever 277
264
Month
SHOPPING STRIP
PUBLIC PARK
188
INFO CENTRE
120 120
OTHER
SERVICE
STATION
21
Usage results based on survey outcomes with a total of 925 responses. Location results based on survey outcomes with a total of 1,655
selections (respondents could select more than 1 location)
Findings & Recommendations
Public toilets in Greater Bendigo are generally well distributed and provide
a comprehensive network of facilities across the municipality. There are
opportunities to further improve and strengthen the network of toilets
through upgrades and installations at key locations.
Activity Centres around the Hargreaves Mall toilets are largely related to
the levels of safety, privacy and accessibility of the existing
The Commercial Land Activity Centre Strategy (2015) facilities. Council’s audit assessed the toilets in Hargreaves
sets out an Activity Centre Hierarchy (see Appendix A) as Mall as in very good structural condition, however
follows: community feedback has indicated that these toilets are
›› City Centre the most in need of improvement and should be a high
priority for a new facility.
›› Activity Centre
›› Neighbourhood Activity Centre Before the installation of a new toilet in Bath Lane,
›› Township/Rural Centre upgrades to the existing toilets (or installation of new
toilets) in Hargreaves Mall should be prioritised. Following
In the context of Greater Bendigo’s commercial areas, this upgrade, the need for a new public toilet in Bath Lane
public toilets should be prioritised in higher order centres should be reviewed and monitored in the short - medium
Public Toilet Strategy
TOM FLOOD
Tom Flood Toilet Block
SPORT S CENTRE Co-located facility only open during
training and events.
ST
R D
RNA
BA
CH
AP
E
2 Safe Transport Hub
LS
QEO ROSALIND PARK
T
Open 24 hours, provides facility for after
Toilet block open 24 hours. Council
hours activity along Pall Mall. Newly
audit assessed as in poor condition
constructed & located and key transport
and moderate usage. Upgrade
terminus.
required (underway).
VI The Mews
EW Toilet in average conditiion in a
ST high profile location. Also ysed by
visitors to Rosalind Park.
Renewal required. Hargreaves St Car Park
ALL Difficult to find and poorly sited. Removal or upgrade
required in short - medium term.
LLM
PA
1 Lyttleton Terrace
Highly utilised and cited by the
community as a priority for
upgrade due to cleanliness,
hygiene and safety concerns.
M
IT
CH
EL
LS
Edward Street Car Park T
No immediate action required
on this toilet. 3
Londonderry Reserve
Low usage and poor condition.
Toilet may be surplus to need.
Consider removal.
T
SS
ILL
W
METRES N
Shopping Centres Activity & Neighbourhood Centres
Community consultation has revealed a clear preference Greater Bendigo’s activity and neighbourhood centres
for shopping centres as their preferred location for public play a key role in servicing the local needs of the
toilets (See Page 17). community and include a range of open spaces and larger
format retail commercial areas.
While public toilets within shopping centres are an
integral part of the Greater Bendigo public toilet network, Toilets in these areas are generally clustered around
they are often privately owned and operated making it Kangaroo Flat and Eaglehawk as shown in Map 3.
difficult to ensure access and accommodate new public
toilets. Gaps
There are no Council owned or managed toilets in the
Recommendations following centres.
›› Advocate for the inclusion of publicly accessible Activity Centres:
toilets as part of the planning process for
development of private commercial sites. ›› Epsom
›› Kangaroo Flat (Lansell Square)
›› Strathdale
Neighbourhood Activity Centres:
›› California Gully
Public Toilet Strategy
›› Golden Square
›› Ironbark
›› Long Gully
›› White Hills
20
Characteristic of outer suburban developments, these
locations are vehicle-dominated destinations and most
Greater Bendigo City Council
Recommendations
›› Upgrade toilets at Lake Neangar and Eaglehawk
Activity Centre.
›› Upgrade toilets at Lake Weeroona to improve design
and siting.
›› Monitor the land use activities and development of
Activity and Neighbourhood Centres and review the
need for public toilets in five years.
Map 3: Activity & Neighbourhood Centres
LEGEND
Public Toilet
Regional Playpace HUNTLY
District Playspace Greater Bendigo
National Park
Commercial Land
Open Space with Organised
Sport Function
Other Open Space
Major Walking/Shared Trail
Rail Line
Rail Station
Watercourse
EPSOM
Water Body
EAGLEHAWK
BENDIGO
GOLDEN SQUARE
KANGAROO FLAT
One Tree Hill
Regional Park
Crusoe Reservoir
& No.7 Park
0 2.5
KILOMETRES N
Rural Bendigo Public Open Space
There are six Township/Rural Centres within Bendigo’s Council’s Public Space Strategy (in progress) identifies five
Activity Centre Hierarchy. categories of open space in the following hierarchy (see
Heathcote is Bendigo’s largest rural township and is a Appendix B):
popular tourist destination for weekend and seasonal ›› State/National
visits. While there are a number of toilet facilities in ›› Regional
Heathcote (e.g. the swimming pool, pavilion, behind the
›› Municipal
Council offices), the most frequented facility is co-located
with the Visitor Centre on High Street. This toilet has been ›› Township/Neighbourhood
identified as an upgrade priority by the community and ›› Local
other stakeholders due to its high utilisation leading to Definitions and functions of each of these open space
poor condition. areas are outlined within the Strategy. The existing Open
$300,000 has been approved in the 2017/2018 budget to Space Strategy does not provide any specific direction
rebuild the facilities at the Heathcote Visitors Centre. about where public toilets should be located. It is
acknowledged that Council is currently updating the Open
Gaps Space Strategy.
Presently, all of Bendigo’s rural townships are serviced In the first instance, toilets should be provided in higher
by at least one public toilet although in many instances order public open space. There may be circumstances
Council is not the committee of management, for example where toilets are required in lower level open spaces (i.e.
Public Toilet Strategy
There are a number of other smaller rural locations, Network gaps have been identified in the following higher
(for example Costerfield and Myers Flat) which do not order open spaces:
have public toilets. In these locations, the provision of
facilities is not considered necessary due to the small local ›› Rosalind Park, Bendigo
catchment they serve. ›› Garden Gully Reserve, Ironbark
›› Quarry Hill Reserve, Quarry Hill
Recommendations
›› Barrack Reserve, Heathcote
›› Replace the toilet at the Heathcote Visitors Centre ›› Truscott Reserve, California Gully
in consultation with the local community to
accommodate high volumes of users and to improve In addition to these locations, many survey respondents
the perceived level of safety of the facility. identified the need for upgrading of facilities at the
›› Review the cleaning frequency of the toilets at Bendigo Botanical Gardens (White Hills) as a key priority.
Heathcote Visitors Centre to ensure they are
maintained to a high standard. Recommendations
›› Continue to maintain toilets in regional townships ›› Consider and monitor the need for new public toilets
to the same standard as other Council owned and in Rosalind Park area.
managed facilities.
›› Upgrade toilets at the Bendigo Botanic Gardens,
White Hills.
›› Prioritise public toilet upgrades/installations
in higher order open spaces and monitor the
community need over time. Should demonstrated
demand arise, apply the assessment frameworks to
justify future provision.
›› Insert reference to the Public Toilet Strategy in the
new Public Space Plan.
›› Identify, investigate and consider the need for future
public toilets at RV dumping sites.
Map 4: Regional Townships
LEGEND
Rural Public Toilet
MARONG
BENDIGO
AXEDALE
Very high usage and do
not cater for peak demand
on weekends and tourist
STRATHFIELDSAYE events. Upgrade required.
LOCKWOOD SOUTH
HEATHCOTE
›› Many existing toilets do not support the needs ›› Develop a hierarchy of preferred typologies that
of particular user groups including the elderly, clearly sets out minimum standards for design,
people with disabilities and parents with children. fixtures and fittings.
›› Some toilets are poorly integrated into the public ›› Develop overarching design and siting principles
realm, creating negative perceptions of safety and to improve the integration of toilets into the
usability. public realm and reduce anti-social behaviour.
›› Automated fixtures and fittings are not intuitive ›› Improve design and integration of toilets
and difficult for many users (e.g. the toilets in by promoting opportunities for community
Preference results based on survey outcomes with a total of 925 responses. Preference results based on survey outcomes with a total of 925 responses.
Findings & Recommendations
The design and siting of a public toilets greatly influences its usability and
accessibility. Design is also important for promoting positive perceptions of
public toilets to the community.
Typologies Configuration
There are many different ways of categorising public The most common configuration of public toilet in Greater
toilet designs with regard to form and typology. Broadly Bendigo is split gender; comprising separate male and
speaking, there are two types of facilities used throughout female toilet entrances either in a toilet block style or an
Greater Bendigo: stand alone toilet blocks and co- open unit style. Unisex or split gender cubicles with single
located facilities. Within each of these typologies there access doorways can also be found in Bendigo (e.g. The
are various different configurations, interpretations and Safe Transport Hub). The consultation findings indicate
adaptations. that the split gender configuration is the preference of
Key features of stand-alone public toilets are: surveyed residents in Greater Bendigo.
›› Freestanding (not attached to or within another Balancing design and configuration requirements with
building structure) practical needs should be carefully considered when
›› Externally accessible from public realm developing new facilities. For example, in some high use
locations, it may be more appropriate to build larger
›› Separate male/female entrances or single fronted unit
facilities to cater for high volumes of users.
doors
Public Toilet Strategy
›› Can include separate or integrated disabled access The configuration of public toilets should respond to the
needs of the local community in which the public toilet is
Key features of co-located public toilets are: located. In some suburbs, the provision of unisex facilities
›› Attached to, or located within a building structure may be appropriate, however in other areas split gender
26 ›› Externally accessible from the public realm facilities may be better.
›› Either separate male/female entrances or single Prior to the development of a new public toilet facility,
Greater Bendigo City Council
fronted unit doors engagement with the immediate community and local
›› Opening hours restricted by building and activity (such residents should be undertaken to ensure that future
as sport fixture, training or event). toilet designs meet community expectations and needs.
Stand-alone public toilets (toilet blocks) are the most Recommendation
common typology across Greater Bendigo. While these
are the most common, toilet block configurations can ›› When appropriate, undertake consultation and
present various design constraints due to their rigid engagement with the local community prior to the
construction, often resulting in minimal compliance with development and installation of a new public toilet.
Australian Standard 1428 (AS 1328). Many older blocks
lack natural lighting or ventilation and are commonly
perceived to be unsafe and unhygienic. Toilets that are
poorly integrated into their environment can further
create perceptions of exposure and lack of privacy.
The provision of new public toilets should be contextual
to the site and scale of the location. Activity generators
must also be considered when designing public toilets and
in locations with high peak usage. The scale fixtures and
fittings should be commensurate to use. The Assessment
Framework (see Chapter 4) outlines key decision making
considerations for determining the most appropriate
typology for specific locations.
Recommendation
›› Refer to the Service Provision Hierarchy when
determining the typology of new public toilets (see
Public Toilet Toolkit Chapter 4).
Fixtures and Fittings
Council has a number of public toilets which are hybrid
typologies and provide automated functions such as
locking doors, hand washing and cleaning (e.g. Hargreaves
Mall). There are a number of issues associated with these
facilities in regard to their usability and accessibility for
different user groups.
Toilets in Greater Bendigo contain a range of basic fixtures
and fittings. In certain locations, fixtures and fittings
should be customised to reflect the needs of specific user
groups. For example in locations with high peak usage
such as sport pavilions, male urinals should be considered;
Stand Alone Public Toilet Facility, Axedale Skate Park
or in locations where there are high volumes of families
with children, the provision of baby change tables should
be considered.
The Implementation Plan (Chapter 3) contains a suite of
standard and custom fixtures and fittings and provides
guidance to where they may be appropriate.
1 12 13 14
Locate toilets in central, Orientate toilets and Integrate toilets seamlessly New toilets should reflect the
multi-use community entrances toward well lit into the public realm and local character and where
facilities that draw areas to maximise safety. avoid obstructing toilets appropriate, encourage
on existing walking with dense landscaping, artistic design expression in
catchments and maximise vegetation or impermeable locations with high usage or
28
visibility to the street/
barriers. visitation.
public space.
Greater Bendigo City Council
15 16 17 18
›› Many public toilets are inaccessible for people ›› Identify key toilets that provide limited
with disabilities or special access requirements. accessibility and upgrade accordingly.
›› DDA requirements can be restrictive and can ›› Develop a standard suite of fixtures and fittings
result in poor design outcomes. that consider the needs of various user groups.
›› Many facilities do not cater for the needs of ›› Improve toilet signage and information provision.
Walking distance results based on survey outcomes with a total of 925 responses.
Findings & Recommendations
Respondents Familiar with Top 5 Most Requested Locations for New Most Requested Locations for
Changing Places Facilties Changing Places Facilities New Changing Places Facilities in Bendigo
LANSELL 20 votes
SQUARE
Top 5 Most Requested Locations for New Most Requested Locations for LAKE 18 votes
Changing Places Facilities New Changing Places Facilities in Bendigo WEROONA
Source: Funding Guidelines and Application Form, Appendix 1 Changing Places Survey 2017, Department
LIBRARY 15 votes
of Health and Human Services
MAJOR SHOPPING CENTRES 62%
BENDIGO CBD 64 votes
PUBLIC PARKS & 42%
Signage, Wayfinding & website which lists Barbecue locations and also links to
the National Public Toilet Map (see Case Study). Although
Communication the National Public Toilet Map is a useful community
Signage and wayfinding are important factors in resource, it is an external data source that is not always
promoting an accessible and connected public toilet updated. Council should regularly check and update
network. Often considered a minor detail, signage assists information within Greater Bendigo on Council owned
residents, workers and visitors to Greater Bendigo in assets. A number of apps allow users to also access this
navigating Council’s toilet network. database information on their smart phones as discussed
in the case studies below.
Existing signage on public toilet facilities is varied across
the municipality. Many toilets currently have large The communication of public toilet locations and
Council signs/branding on the exterior of the facility that availability should be provided across a number of
identify the name of the toilet. Industry best practices different platforms. Whilst digital tools allow users to
recommends that additional information should be easily locate toilets, some members of the community are
provided on the exterior of all public toilets to convey key unable to access or have difficulty connecting to digital
aspects of the facility including: communication platforms. The inclusion of toilet locations
on key maps and publications throughout Bendigo should
›› Gender accessibility still be considered.
›› Opening hours
›› Contact information (to report repairs or closures) Recommendation:
›› Consideration for vision impaired users ›› Develop a municipal signage/wayfinding strategy to
Public Toilet Strategy
connectivity of Council’s public toilet network is through opening hours and DDA compliance.
online information. Council currently has a page on it’s
Case Study 1
34
Greater Bendigo City Council
Recommendation:
›› This Strategy does not recommend that Council adopt
a user paid system in the short to medium term.
Should a need for such a system arise in the longer
term, Council should undertake further investigations
and consultation with the community.
Public Toilet Strategy
36
Greater Bendigo City Council
MANAGEMENT
Objective:
Prioritise the safety of all public toilet users in Greater Bendigo by minimising
occurrences of anti-social behaviour.
Maintain toilets to a high standard of cleanliness to enhance the safety, health and
wellbeing of all users.
›› Poor perceptions of hygiene and cleanliness ›› Refurbish facilities (as required) at key locations
among the community. to improve perceptions of safety.
›› Council does not manage the majority of open ›› Reduce antisocial behaviour through site
space with Greater Bendigo. responsive interventions (CPTED).
›› Varying ›› Review and increase the cleaning of high use
“The standards ofhang
provision between
those Council
common
“Rarelywithin
clean,the
feelcommunity.
unsafe. Always make instances of anti-social behaviour or loitering
such as automated locking doors.
Safety
Historically, public toilets have become known as hotspots There are a number of responses to anti-social behaviour
for antisocial behaviour and undesirable activity. As that Council can employ such as:
Council continues to upgrade it’s facilities and improve ›› Installation of CCTV cameras
the level of service provision, it also seeks to reduce and
›› Time-sensor lighting (solar panel operated)
minimise occurrences of anti-social behaviour such drug-
related activity, sexual activity or overnight stays. ›› Quick response to reactive maintenance
›› Regular cleaning and reporting
The safety and security of public toilet users should
be prioritised ahead of any other decision-making Facilities that are old, in poor structural condition and
Public Toilet Strategy
considerations. From a user perspective, perceptions of subject to ongoing anti-social behaviour should be
safety can be as influential as actual or recorded levels of considered for decommissioning.
safety. If a toilet is perceived to be unsafe, unhygienic or Feedback from stakeholders indicates that some toilets
dangerous, users will generally avoid usage of the facility. in isolated locations are used for overnight stays. In
38 There are a number of factors that contribute to negative particular, Elmore was identified as a hotspot due to the
safety perceptions: presence of shower facilities.
Greater Bendigo City Council
LEGEND
Public Toilet - Council Owned
ELMORE
Public Toilet Strategy
RAYWOOD
Morshead Park
MARONG
BENDIGO
AXEDALE
STRATHFIELDSAYE
HEATHCOTE
REDESDALE
Redesdale
0 10
KILOMETRES N
Map 6: Ownership - Urban
LEGEND
Public Toilet - Council Owned
Public Toilet - Committee of Management HUNTLY
Commercial Land Greater Bendigo
National Park
Open Space
Rail Line
Rail Station
Watercourse
Water Body
EPSOM
EAGLEHAWK
MAIDEN GULLY
State Forest
BENDIGO
QUARRY HILL
STRATHDALE
GOLDEN SQUARE
KANGAROO FLAT
One Tree Hill
Regional Park
Crusoe Reservoir
& No.7 Park
KILOMETRES N
Opening Hours Seasonal Demand
The opening hours of toilets in Greater Bendigo vary As well as being a key tourist attraction, Greater Bendigo
between 24 hours and dawn and dusk. Generally, stand- hosts a number of seasonal and annual events throughout
alone toilets are open 24 hours and co-located toilets are the year that attract large crowds. These events are held
open from dawn to dusk. at key locations throughout the municipality including
the Bendigo CBD, large parks, sporting venues and the
In some locations, particularly in rural or remote areas,
Showgrounds.
toilets that are open 24 hours can attract anti-social
behaviour. There are several known ‘hotspot’ locations The use of portable toilets is common practice for large
where antisocial activities have been reported. Actions municipal events. Legislative and planning requirements
to minimise anti-social behaviour through alternative require approval of an event management plan prior
management practices include: the commencement of a large event. Unless there is
a considerable demonstrated community need, the
›› Locking toilets during the evening provision of permanent toilet infrastructure is not
›› Installation of CCTV cameras necessary as it encourages the proliferation a dormant
›› Installation of automatic door locks toilet network (i.e. toilets that are inaccessible to the
›› Security patrols public as they locked for the majority of the year).
Determining the most appropriate response to an issue In addition to the requirements of event management
should be site/context specific and what works in one plans, consideration for accessible and changing places
location to deter anti-social behaviour may not apply facilities should be taken into account for large events.
Public Toilet Strategy
in other locations. Responses should also consider Council is in the process of purchasing a portable
the diversity and density of activities around the toilet, Marveloo Changing Places facility that is to be made
particularly evening activities. 24 hour availability presents available for rent at large events. The provision of
a range of challenges, particularly in relation to safety these facilities will enable members of the community
and perceptions around anti-social behaviour during the with additional mobility requirements to participate in
42
evening. A number of 24 hour toilets are available for use municipal events.
in the CBD at key locations that attract night time activity Aquatic centres and other recreational facilities
Greater Bendigo City Council
including: The Safe Transport Hub and Lyttleton Terrace. for waterplay are locations where peak demand is
The provision of additional toilets to service the night concentrated around the summer months. Feedback from
time economy is not considered necessary due to the the community identified Long Gully Splash Park as a high
availability of privately owned toilets found in: priority for a new public toilet.
›› Restaurants and bars Another way that municipal authorities have managed
›› Nightclubs and other entertainment precincts and increased the toilet network is through the private
toilet network via apps such as AirPnP (refer to case
›› Transport hubs such as major train, bus and taxi
study).
terminals.
Council should continue to monitor this need as Recommendation
development and land use patterns change over time. ›› Construct new toilet at Long Gully Splash Park to be
accessible and accommodate peak seasonal usage.
Recommendation
›› Continue to investigate the need for a Marveloo
›› Investigate the need for alternative management Changing Places Facility at key Council run events
practices at known hotspot locations to minimize throughout the year.
anti-social behaviour.
›› Monitor the need for a new toilet in the CBD or other
location with a concentration of night time activities.
43
The Public Toilet Toolkit has been developed to assist The Service Hierarchy sets out four different levels of
Council in determining future priorities. It is to be service provision based on different toilet configurations
reviewed in conjunction with the Implementation Plan to and typologies. The hierarchy should be used to
guide future decision making processess around the need determine the minimum level of service provision for a
for upgrading, removing or installing new public toilets. specific location.
Two Assessment Frameworks have been developed to A standard suite of Fixtures & Fittings has been
assist Council in determining future upgrades to public developed to guide the internal and external configuration
toilets (or installation of new toilet) should a request of new public toilets. In addition to the standard suite, a
arise outside the capital works plan. The Assessment number of site-specific features have been listed. These
Frameworks should be reviewed in conjunction with the features should be installed in premium public toilets, or
overall vision, objectives and principles outlined in this in locations where there is a demonstrated community
Strategy and used in the following instances: need. The suite should be used as a guide only.
Is there a demonstrated community demand or volume of requests for this facility to be replaced or refurbished?
RESOURCES:
›› Evidence from the community or Council audits/records that the existing facility is not adequately functioning
›› Maintenance requests from community
›› Community surveys
›› Public Space Strategy
›› Local masterplans or structure plans
›› Counters
›› Empirical observations or anecdotal information from the community, Council staff, cleaning, service or
maintenance contractors
›› Maintenance costs
›› Water usage, levels of toilet paper, soap consumed weekly, monthly or annually
›› DDA Compliance
›› Universal access
›› Site specific features
RESOURCES:
Is there a high movement of pedestrian, cycling or other active transport modes and the proposed location in an
Public Toilet Strategy
Will the new toilet enhance community safety, health and wellbeing?
CONSIDERATIONS:
1
Public Toilet Strategy
48
Greater Bendigo City Council
2 3
3 1
›› Syringe disposal
›› Sensors to conserve energy and water
consumption
›› Mirror
›› Rubbish bins
›› Non-slip surfaces
Disabled and In accordance with AS 1428 In accordance with AS 1428
ambulant toilets
Changing Places In accordance with Changing Places In accordance with Changing Places guidelines
Facilities guidelines
Notes
*The use of specific fixtures and fittings should be considered on a site-specific basis. For example in high use locations,
where accommodating the maximum number of people is a priority, fixtures such as urinals and jumbo rolls should be
considered. In locations where there is anti-social behaviour the use of security cameras or automatic locking doors may
be appropriate.
51
An Implementation Plan has been developed that sets out Refer to Appendix D to compare the additional coverage
the key priorities for public toilet upgrades over the next proposed as part of the new Capital Works Plan in
10 years. It should be read in conjunction with the vision, reference to 1km and 5km radius.
objectives and principles for public toilets in Greater
It is recommended that the Implementation Plan is
Bendigo.
reviewed after 5 years in order to assess the future
The strategic and operational recommendations of priorities, community need and demand.
this Strategy have been translated into an Action Plan,
categorised by theme and each assigned an indicative
timing.
The Capital Works Plan sets out a 10 year list of upgrades
and actions for all public toilet in Greater Bendigo. The
time line provided in the capital works plan is indicative
and Council should determine the most appropriate
Public Toilet Strategy
Partner and work with relevant Committee of Managements to provide public toilets in Ongoing
key locations along tracks and trails.
DESIGN
Refer to the Service Provision Hierarchy when determining the typology of new public Ongoing
toilets (see Public Toilet Toolkit Chapter 4).
When appropriate, undertake consultation and engagement with the local community Ongoing
prior to the development and installation of a new public toilet.
Standardise the provision of fixtures and fittings in accordance with the service provision Ongoing
to ensure consistency across the network (see Public Toilet Toolkit Chapter 4).
Action Timing
Incorporate additional features in site specific locations as appropriate to the site. Ongoing
Apply the design and siting principles as relevant to the upgrade of existing facilities and Ongoing
the installation of new toilets (see Public Toilet Toolkit Chapter 4).
ACCESSIBILITY
Apply the principles of universal design to all toilet upgrades and new installations. Ongoing
Update list of public toilets on Council’s Community Compass web page to include Short Term
information including opening hours and DDA compliance.
Investigate the viability of a community toilet scheme through a trial in a local Long Term
community.
54 Monitor the need for a user paid system in the long term. Should the need arise, Long Term
undertake further consultation with the public as well as key user groups.
Greater Bendigo City Council
MANAGEMENT
Incorporate CPTED principles into all decision and assessment processes. Ongoing
Assess the safety and structural condition of all toilet facilities through a Council audit Every 5 years
process every five years.
Record all reports and instances of anti-social behaviour and reactive maintenance and Ongoing
monitor over time to identify key hot spots.
Record and collect information about usage and cleaning performance using counters or Ongoing
other methods.
Review and update current cleaning and maintenance schedules commensurate to levels Annually
of usage and peak demand.
Update Council’s audit data to include information about other Council owned and Annually
managed toilets not currently captured.
Investigate the viability of a municipal wide app that allows individual users to report Medium Term
maintenance issues. directly to Council through their smart phone.
Investigate the need for alternative management practices at known hotspot locations to Medium Term
minimize anti-social behaviour.
Monitor the need for a new toilet in the CBD or other location with a concentration of Medium Term
night time activities.
Continue to investigate the need for a Marveloo Changing Places Facility at key Council Short Term
run events throughout the year.
E Capital Works Plan
REF. TOILET NAME/ SUBURB ACTION COMMENT PRIORITY
NO. LOCATION
36 Bendigo East Bendigo Decommission Low usage surplus asset Short Term
Aerodrome
39 Caradon Way Eaglehawk Decommission Very poor condition, low usage requiring Short Term
Eaglehawk removal
16 Cooinda Park Golden Square Upgrade High use, high profile location requiring Short Term
upgrade
1 Elmore Elmore Upgrade (incl. Very high usage, very high profile Short Term
Changing requiring full upgrade including 'Changing
Places) Places' capability
57 Epsom Epsom New Provision of new facility for Epsom Short Term
pending community consultation and
needs analysis, Land may need to be
purchased in addition to these works
19 Goornong Village Goornong Renewal Average condition, high usage, high Short Term
8 Lyttleton Terrace Bendigo Upgrade Very high usage, very high profile Short Term
Coles Carpark requiring substantial upgrade.
27 Queen Elizabeth Bendigo Upgrade Average condition, high usage, high Short Term
Oval profile requiring upgrade
10 Rotary Gateway Kangaroo Flat Upgrade (incl. Poor condition, high usage in prominent Short Term
Park Changing "Gateway" location
Places)
11 Safe Transport Bendigo Upgrade (incl. Review the need for this in 2022-23 Short Term
Hub Changing
Places)
REF. TOILET NAME/ SUBURB ACTION COMMENT PRIORITY
NO. LOCATION
72 Truscott Reserve California Gully Decommission Current Toilet Block beyond renewal and Short Term
Former Public requires demolition
Toilets
73 Truscott Reserve California Gully Upgrade Retrofit to allow Public Access to stadium Short Term
Stadium facilities
33 Victoria Street Eaglehawk Renewal Upgrade of ageing stock Short Term
Eaglehawk
6 Lake Weeroona - Bendigo Renewal Very high usage, very high profile Short Term
Female requiring renewal
7 Lake Weeroona Bendigo Renewal Very high usage, very high profile Short Term
- Male requiring renewal
24 Lake Weeroona Bendigo Decommission Average condition, surplus asset requiring Short Term
Creekside disposal
56 Bath Lane Bendigo New Provision of new facility for Bath Lane Medium
Precinct Precinct pending community consultation Term
and needs analysis, Land may need to be
purchased in addition to these works
38 Station Street, Kangaroo Flat Renewal Low usage asset in isolated location and Medium
Kangaroo Flat subject to ongoing anti-social behaviour. Term
Public Toilet Strategy
*Refer to Appendix D for maps showing existing network and proposed capital works network coverage
59
POLICY SUMMARY
NAME OVERVIEW IMPLICATIONS FOR PTS 2017
Greater Bendigo Replaces the Council Plan 2013-2017 and sets out six key objectives Opportunities to reflect objectives and vision through
Community Plan 201 relating to governance, wellness & equality, the economy, managing recommendations of the Final Strategy.
-2021 (Draft) growth, environmental sustainability and culture. Sets out a vision for The Plan outlines a lists of relevant strategies currently in use.
Bendigo to be the world’s most liveable community.
Council Plan 2013 - 2017 Sets a vision for Greater Bendigo and identifies strategic objectives, No direct reference to public toilets, however the Plan emphasises
(Year 4) challenges and opportunities in reference to five themes: leadership the importance of taking action to improve Greater Bendigo’s
and good governance, planning for growth, vibrancy, productivity liveability by improving the health and wellbeing of the community.
and sustainability. This is intended to be achieved through a strong focus on accessible
Current Council Plan will be replaced with the Greater Bendigo open space with direct links to important community facilities and
Community Plan. services.
Greater Bendigo Public Provides an overview of the issues and challenges associated with There are a number of key information sources contained within the
Space Plan Strategic public space in Bendigo. The Report explores a range of themes and Report including the hierarchy of open spaces, play spaces and land
Context & Issues Report influences that impact the delivery and operation of public space. ownership arrangements. Many of the issues effecting public space in
The plan will eventually replace the existing Open Space Strategy. Greater Bendigo also broadly influence public toilet provision.
Open Space Strategy Outlines the key strategies required to realise Council’s ‘open space The definition of open space within this document identifies good
2005 vision’, ensuring that open space within Bendigo continues to serve public toilet access as a necessary requirement for successful open
as a major contributor to the quality of life of residents. spaces.
Recommended actions for the development of a walking/cycling trail
include making use of existing toilets in the area.
Community Access and An action plan that aims to reduce barriers to any person with a As part of the plan to reduce barriers to facilities, the document
Inclusion Plan 2015-2018 disability from accessing goods, services, facilities and employment outlines a need to review the City’s Public Toilet Strategy. This will
opportunities. Also aims to change attitudes and practices that can include identifying accessibility issues and setting out a plan for the
lead to discrimination against those with disabilities. next 5 years to implement any required changes.
The Plan also advocates for inclusion of accessible toilet information
on the Bendigo regional maps and communications.
Addresses the feasibility of purchasing accessible portable toilets for
community events.
Positive Ageing Strategy Outlines the actions that are required to address the needs of Discusses the idea of a ‘Travellers Aid’ service at Bendigo Station that
2011-2014 all elderly people within the municipality. This will be done by would include accessible public toilets.
addressing social connection, health, housing and transport access.
Commercial Land and Provides a framework for the planning and development of activity No direct mention of public toilets, however it prioritises in its
Activity Centre Strategy centres for the next two decades. outcomes a healthy and safe community with improved wellbeing.
Environment Strategy Sets out a 20 year vision for the municipality that recognises No direct mention of public toilets, however there is a strong focus
2016-2021 the challenges and opportunities involved with environmental on open space within the municipality.
sustainability.
Play Space Strategy Outlines actions required to manage and improve 115 child friendly Establishes a hierarchy of criteria for the City’s play spaces. In
2009-2014 play spaces across the municipality. particular regional level play spaces must contain a wide variety of
amenities including public toilets.
Also outlines the importance of supporting amenities including
disabled toilets.
Public Health and Sets goals for protecting and improving the health of people living No direct mention of public toilets, however it does highlight
Wellbeing Strategy within the municipality. the importance of well serviced public spaces when it comes to
improving health in the community.
Municipal Early Years Focuses on the needs of children aged from birth to eight years by Identifies the need for more parent rooms/family toilets around the
Plan 2015-2018 improving access to high quality and accessible services to their municipality.
families and carers Also identifies the need for visible toilets in playgrounds and play
spaces.
Appendix B
LEGEND
Appendix
D Toilet
Existing Public
Proposed New Public Toilet
5km Radius Existing Toilet
5km Radius Proposed Toilet
Urban Area
Goornong
Elmore
Raywood
Marong
BENDIGO Goornong
Axedale
Strathfieldsaye
Lockwood South
Marong
BENDIGO
Heathcote
Axedale
Strathfieldsaye
Mia Mia
Lockwood South
Redesdale
Heathcote
Mia Mia
0 10
KILOMETRES N
Redesdale
Appendix E