Yarra Ranges Council will begin upgrade works on the public toilets in Queens Park, Healesville, from today (Wednesday, 19 January) after significant vandalism damage caused their closure late last year.

Vandals set fire to the toilets in October, causing significant damage to the toilet block.

The works will address the fire damage, while installing new lighting inside and outside of the toilet block, an access control system to lock the toilets overnight and replacement of materials and fittings with stainless steel to reduce vandalism.

Ryrie Ward representative, Cr Fiona McAllister, said the damage to the toilet block had been extensive, and had disappointed many over the school holidays.

“Queens Park is one of the most visited areas in Healesville, with a large playspace, open grass areas for picnics, tennis courts and our outdoor pool nearby,” Cr McAllister said.

“It’s incredibly disappointing that people have caused such significant damage to the public toilets there, leaving others without an easily accessible toilet in one of the busiest periods of the year.

“The carelessness of others can have significant impacts on the community, and I’m sorry to our community for the difficulties this has caused.

“The upgrade works will help prevent future vandalism, while improving the materials all over the toilet block, and I look forward to seeing the finished results at the start of March.”

It is anticipated that the upgrade works will take six weeks. During the upgrade period, temporary toilets will be available to the community, open from 7am-9.30pm.

The temporary toilets will be cleaned daily on weekdays and twice daily over weekends and public holidays. Security patrols have been organised to discourage vandalism.