COUNCILLORS in Teignmouth have agreed to remove some of the controversial CCTV cameras in its new toilet block following public outrage.

The decision to take out cameras from the accessible toilets is a partial climbdown following the backlash against the cameras which were pointed to record inside cubicles unless the door was fully shut.

Angry toilet users said the use was a breach of privacy and a safeguarding risk for children using the loos.

The cameras stop recording when the cubicle door closed but parents and disabled users argued there were times when they had to keep the door open.

Now, Teignmouth Town Council says, in response to ‘feedback’ from the public, it has reconsidered.

In a statement, the council said is has ‘listened carefully to feedback from the public regarding privacy concerns in our new gender-neutral toilet block’.

A spokesman said: ‘In response, we have taken decisive action and removed the CCTV cameras from the accessible toilets to ensure the highest respect for individual privacy.’

As previously reported, the issue came to light after a mum-of-two took both her children to use the accessible toilets at the newly opened block on the Den and discovered having left the door ajar, that the camera above was on.

The council, which is spending £1.5million upgrading the town’s toilets, said the cameras were needed to tackle repeated vandalism which has been costing the authority £10,000 a year in repairs.

The new block on the Den has a total of 22 cameras which many argue is excessive.

Although some users agreed cameras could be needed to deter and identify vandals, there are continues concerns over who has access to any footage.

However, it was not until the camera function was highlighted by the concerned mother that many were even aware the cameras were recording inside the cubicles.

The revelation sparked fierce criticism with many people insisting they will refuse to use the new toilets which cost 40p a time.

The town council continued: ‘While these cameras were never able to film inside stalls when doors were closed, we fully recognise and understand the concerns raised by members of our community.

‘We are committed to balancing privacy with the need for safety.

‘We have, however, retained cameras in the hallways.

‘These play a pivotal role in tackling persistent issues of vandalism and drug use.

‘Unfortunately, repeated incidents of this nature have previously forced us to close the toilets, costing the council thousands of pounds and leaving the public without essential facilities.

‘These are real challenges we must address to keep our toilets open and safe for everyone.

‘We want to reassure the community that all CCTV systems are carefully positioned to enhance safety while maintaining respect for personal privacy.

‘Our aim is to provide a welcoming, secure environment for all users, and we will continue to review our approach in light of ongoing feedback.’