Seven new public toilets make Islington more accessible for all

The rollout includes automated public toilets in key locations including Newington Green, City Road, Highbury Fields, Holloway Road, Seven Sisters Road, Highbury Crescent, and a Changing Places facility at Islington Green.  

The toilets are free to use and designed to support independent access for wheelchair users. 

Each unit is self-cleaning, with automatic disinfection of the toilet bowl, seat, floor and walls after every use, and ozone-based night cleaning for added hygiene. They also feature integrated, flame-retardant waste bins for general and menstrual waste, supporting safe and discreet disposal. 

Cllr Sheila Chapman, Executive Member for Equalities, Communities & Inclusion, said: “Whether you’re an older resident, a parent with young children, or someone with a disability, having access to clean, safe, and free facilities makes a huge difference.  

“These new toilets are a win for dignity and equality in Islington – they help everyone enjoy our parks, cafés, and town centres, at all hours of the day, without stress or barriers. As a parent of three, I know how vital this is – and I’m very proud we’re delivering it.” 

The rollout follows extensive engagement with local groups including Disability Action Islington, Islington Pensioners’ Forum, and Campaign for Loos (supported by Age UK), who have long campaigned for better public toilet access. The decline of public toilets is a serious issue for accessibility, as it makes it more difficult for those who suffer with incontinence to traverse London. 

Elodie Pinn, Campaigns Support Officer for Age UK, provided the following statement in response to our request:  “Currently, too many older Londoners avoid leaving their home as much as they would like as they are not confident that they will be able to access a toilet if they need to. The same concern can mean that many older people drink less than they should, leading to dehydration and a higher risk of ill health. 

"Age UK London welcomes new public toilet provision. Boroughs that increase their public toilet provision are taking positive steps towards reducing social isolation for its older residents and becoming a more welcoming borough.” 

To find your nearest public toilet, visit: islington.gov.uk/roads/public-toilets