I wish to thank all those who have stepped forward to oppose the planned closure of public toilets in Haworth, not least our ward councillors Glen Miller, Rebecca Poulsen and Russell Brown. Regardless of political affiliation, they recognise the essential need for these facilities in a village that has few and is reliant on tourism.

This is not a political issue; a cynical opportunity to apportion blame to local or national government. They have acted to protect their community because they recognise the devastating consequences of these proposals.

Haworth attracts about one million tourists per year, many arriving by coach. Without adequate public conveniences, those coach operators will find alternative destinations. Of course, local business will be the first to suffer – with reduced jobs and income from rates – then local government and the wider community. Central Park is one of the few leisure facilities available to local residents, created to improve our welfare. Removing the public toilets would cause significant inconvenience to residents, an irony in a village whose history is notorious for its poor public health caused by lack of adequate sanitation.

Bradford Council has a considerable task in achieving the savings needed, with some difficult choices to make. I support the need to reduce frivolous and unnecessary spending; our public toilets are neither. Some may consider Christmas lights ceremonies and fireworks in Centenary Square to be.

Councillor Nikki Carroll Haworth