A resident has voiced his dissatisfaction with Transport for London (TfL) for not relocating a bus driver toilet situated near his home.
Brett Kemp stated that the presence of the toilet is hindering his efforts to sell his property in Purley, south London. Despite TfL’s assurance months earlier that they were looking for a new site for a permanent facility, no action has been taken.
A spokesperson for TfL mentioned that preparations for the toilet’s relocation are “in the final stages,” and that they are keeping Mr. Kemp informed of developments.
“We regret the delay, but it’s important that the relocation is beneficial for both the drivers and the local community,” they noted.
Mr. Kemp reported that TfL had informed him in December that they received authorization to shift the toilet “early in the new year,” but since then, progress has stalled.
“They indicated a trial would take place, with buses re-routing, to put the new arrangement into effect,” he recounted.
“However, I received an email last Monday stating that issues arose preventing the implementation of the new setup.”
He previously shared with BBC London that the toilet was initially housed in a less permanent-looking facility.
While he recognizes the necessity for restroom access for bus drivers, he believes the toilet should be positioned farther from the nearby residential properties and the school across the street.
Mr. Kemp remarked, “This has just been a constant delay since they installed it here last July – they called it a temporary solution, but it appears more permanent now.”
He further indicated that this issue has impacted his home selling prospects and that the Local Government Ombudsman (LGO) is currently reviewing the situation.
“I had a potential buyer, but they withdrew their offer after seeing the toilet,” he explained.
“Nobody is likely to purchase this house with a toilet right outside… the smell is dreadful.”
He now fears he may need to reduce the selling price of his home by £100,000 if the matter isn’t resolved promptly.
A feasibility study was conducted in August between Croydon council and TfL, but Mr. Kemp questioned, “Why has it taken so long to relocate a temporary, portable toilet?”
“It could easily be moved a mere 30 yards with a forklift, so I don’t comprehend the hurdles,” he added.
In response, a TfL representative stated, “We are finalizing plans to transfer the toilet from its current temporary location to a permanent one.”
“It is crucial for the welfare of bus drivers that we ensure they have access to toilet facilities.”
“We have maintained regular communication with Mr. Kemp regarding our plans and will continue to update him on the progress.”
“We apologize for the delay, but we need to ensure that the relocation serves both the drivers and the community effectively.”
