PUBLIC toilets across the Kennet district area could be closed or handed over to parish councils to run as part of a shake-up brought about by the need to contain council spending.

Parish council representatives from across the district have been invited to a special consultation meeting in Devizes on 8 December where the options will be outlined.

Two conveniences at Lud-gershall and Tidworth could be at risk.

Peter Richardson, who sits on the Ludgershall council as well as being a district councillor, advised the parish that it should be represented at the meeting.

"I suggest this is considered very, very carefully. I know the way the thinking is going as they are looking at ways for us to take on extra responsibility," he said.

"At least our public convenience is in very good condition in comparison to others."

Parish clerk Janet White thought it a bit late in the year to be bringing the topic up as the budget planning process was already well advanced and the parish precept, usually around £50,000, will have to be agreed in a few weeks' time.

Councillor John Newman, said: "I know that £50,000 sounds a lot of money but it isn't when it comes to spending it. I think it's a bit late in the year for this to be dumped on us."

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