BCP Council will be opening some public unisex cubicles “later this year” at an environmental hub along the seafront.
Lavatories which can be used for both men and women will be available to the public at the new Durley Environmental Innovation Hub currently being built in between Durley Chine beach and Alum Chine beach.
The council say the decision to bring in unsex cubicles is because it is the “best option available when space is tight.”
A BCP Council spokesperson said: “Unisex toilets are sometimes the best option available when space for the provision of public facilities is tight.
“The Seaside Environmental Hub: Bournemouth, which will be dedicated to achieving a step-change in reducing waste and eliminating single-use packaging along our beautiful seafront, will open later this year and will feature unisex cubicles to provide the best mix of accessible capacity in this busy seafront location.
“Alongside continuing to actively maintain our large number of public facilities, we will be shortly announcing further new toilets across the BCP region, as we continue to invest in the services that residents and visitors deserve.”
Cllr Beverley Dunlop, portfolio holder for culture and vibrant places, said: “My view is that unisex lavatories are an inclusive addition, to single sex facilities, but they must not be a replacement.
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“Everyone needs privacy, safety and dignity when going to the loo, especially women and the elderly and there are also religions considerations that may prevent some women from sharing facilities with men.
“Our lavatory provision must ensure that no one is discriminated against, that everyone's needs are catered for, and no-one feels uncomfortable when spending a penny.”
Labour councillor for West Southbourne Lisa Lewis said: “I’ve always been fairly pro on unisex toilets. But it is a thing that women take longer than men and the queues take longer.
“I also have sympathy for women who have concerns about it. Maybe if the cubicles have separate areas within for men and women it might work better, but I don’t have all the details.
“My opinions are fairly ambiguous.”
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