Dismay at cut in funding

A Saddleworth hotelier and publican has expressed disappointment at Oldham Council cutting funding for community toilets.

Phil Whiteman, boss of the Old Bell Inn and restaurant in Delph, hit out after the Chronicle revealed five Saddleworth pubs — including his own — will be axed from the scheme in the new year.

Mr Whiteman said: “We are surprised and disappointed with the council’s decision to cut the public toilet funding. We feel this is an essential part of the community and funding should be considered a priority.

“Oldham Council claim to support tourism — we are at the centre of a busy tourist destination yet funding is still being cut.”

Saddleworth Parish Council was compelled to make a detailed review because of cuts and only agreed to fund the current scheme until December 31.

The revised scheme will support only six pubs instead of the current eleven.