REVELLERS could soon be able to have a wee dram at a former public toilet in Newquay town centre.

A planning application has been submitted for a change of use of the redundant public conveniences in Beach Road into a flexible commercial space comprising a bar, office space or potentially both.

The scheme also includes the installation of a new full height opening window and door unit, two high-level windows, an upgraded security gate, and internal alterations.

The plans follow the freehold of the abandoned building and land being sold at auction for £45,000 after Cornwall Council and Newquay Town Council instructed a joint disposal.

The town council decided to sell the asset as the public toilets had been unused for nearly a decade and were costing money. The authority never opened the facility after taking over the freehold of the building from Cornwall Council as they were in poor condition and required an extensive capital overhaul before it could be safely used.

The planning application states: “For its proposed use as a bar, it will primarily serve existing footfall including tourists and locals who are already visiting the beach or town centre.

“For its proposed use as an office space, its central location places it in close proximity to local housing and amenities, drastically reducing commute distances for local staff.

“The absence of on-site parking is mitigated by the site’s exceptional access to public transport and active travel networks. Any essential vehicular travel for example for staff or specific patrons can be accommodated by existing public car parks located nearby in the town centre.

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“Deliveries and servicing will be managed efficiently using existing loading access on Beach Road, ensuring no adverse transport impacts on the surrounding highway network.”