Public toilets on Main Street, Lilydale, will close for the foreseeable future after vandals caused further damage.
Months of repeated vandalism attacks have left the community facility unserviceable, with the latest incident occurring over the weekend of 13 and 14 December.
Yarra Ranges Mayor Richard Higgins said vandals and anti-social behaviour have long targeted the toilets.
“Unfortunately, vandals have damaged the facility yet again, and in the interests of public safety, we have no choice but to close it while we consider other options,” Cr Higgins said.
“It’s incredibly disappointing. These senseless acts of vandalism have destroyed an important community facility, costing ratepayers tens of thousands of dollars.”
Similar events at the Yarra Junction public toilets caused significant damage to cubicles and sinks.
“We will continue working with other agencies to prevent escalating anti-social behaviour at these sites, which may include installing security cameras.”
The council will now investigate all options before deciding the site’s future.
For alternative public toilets in Lilydale, visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/lilydaletoilets or the National Public Toilet Map at toiletmap.gov.au/.
Anyone with information about the damage should contact Lilydale Police. Report any vandalism to Council property via yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Apply-pay-report/Online-services/Report-an-issue
