Former public toilet block in English town for sale for $20k

A set of public toilets being offloaded by a local council in England are for sale.

The toilets, in the town of Penryn in south-west England, could sell for as little as $20,000.

They are owned by Cornwall Council and were previously leased to Penryn Town Council but fell into a state of disrepair before they were handed back to the owners, which have now decided to sell them.

The sale is being handled by Clive Emson Land and Property Auctioneers.

An online listing describes the property as “former public conveniences Permarin toilets” and says they are located at the rear of Lower Market Street.

They are set to go to auction on February 6. A price guide of £10,000 – £15,000 (AUD$20,000 – $30,000) has been set.

The building is described in the listing as a detached former toilet block in a central location.

“Situated in central Penryn, this detached building is currently arranged with separate gents and ladies toilet facilities as well as an accessible toilet cubicle,” the listing says.

“Any future use of the lot would be subject to all necessary consents being obtainable.” 

The lot is located behind a shop and can be accessed via a side alleyway.

Luxury Property News reported the toilet block could possibly be converted into a home.

It is not the first time a public toilet block has been offered for sale. Just last year, Rossendale Borough Council in the UK said public loos were being turned into residences and businesses in the area, including a barber shop and cafe.

“Around the UK, public loos have been transformed into permanent homes, holiday homes, apartments, restaurants, bars, cafes and in Newport, Wales, even a little theatre where singers, comedians and poets perform in one of Britain’s smallest venues,” it said on its website.