Whitland Council admits that it faces a significant financial burden due to the ongoing vandalism of the town’s public toilets, with recent damages costing £600.

Over the past couple of years, Whitland councillors have reported tackling ongoing acts of vandalism to the public toilets in Cross Street, which are under Town Council management.

Last year, the Clerk to the Town Council agreed to seek prices to have a motion light installed, and a CCTV camera covering the entrance, to assist the police in identifying any vandals.

Now, despite these actions to try and clampdown on such anti-social behaviour, vandalism continues to occur early in 2026.

A plea has gone out to members of the public to report any inappropriate behaviour or vandalism that they may witness in the locality.

“Unfortunately, Whitland Town Council has received several complaints regarding blockages and damage in the public toilets,” the Town Council shared on social media.

“Despite the area being covered by CCTV, vandalism continues to occur. Recently, professional contractors had to be called out to clear severe blockages caused by a pumpkin being placed down the drains.

“In addition, walls have been vandalised with graffiti, and toilet facilities have been deliberately misused, with waste being thrown over toilet areas.

“We would like to remind everyone that the area is monitored by CCTV. These incidents place a significant financial burden on Whitland Town Council.”

The Town Council revealed that last year alone, approximately £1,500 was spent on call-out fees for the public toilets, with the most recent incident costing around £600 due to the blockage caused by the pumpkin.

“We kindly ask members of the public that if they witness any inappropriate behaviour or vandalism in the area, they contact us as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation,” added the Town Council.

In response, some people took to social media, to share their views, with one blaming ‘ferrel kids’ and others questioning whether the CCTV were functioning: “Surely if CCTV is working you’d be able to identify these ‘criminals’ - Personally I’d name and shame.”

Others shared their disgust at such anti-social conduct: “Awful. Never happened years ago them toilets were kept well and respected by all. It’s such a shame they are being abused. If you go to Llanboidy they have well kept toilets and community residents respect. Its such a shame Whitland has gone so bad.”

Another remarked: “What is the matter with some people, what do they get out of vandalising public places!”

Anyone who witnesses such actions, are encouraged to contact the Town Clerk via email at: [email protected] or Dyfed-Powys Police via the 101 number.

Over the past couple of years, Pembrokeshire County Council have been threatening to close many public conveniences across the county, unless Town and Community Councils stump up the costs to operate the facilities.

Some toilets across Pembrokeshire have indeed fallen foul to the Local Authority’s approach, with the conveniences at Penally Railway Station closing due to PCC pulling its financial contribution.