Swan Hill Rural City Council advises the community that the Northwest toilet block at the Swan Hill Showgrounds precinct, located on the corner of Pritchard Street and Stradbroke Avenue, will be decommissioned, with works scheduled to commence next week.
Council's Director Infrastructure, Leah Johnston said that the removal of the amenities aligns with the Swan Hill Sport and Recreation Precinct Master Plan, adopted in September 2025, which identified the facilities for removal. The facility was also earmarked for decommissioning at end-of-life in Council's Public Convenience Strategy 2020.
"This ageing infrastructure, that hasn't been open to the public since 2022, has reached a point where ongoing maintenance is no longer practical or cost-effective. The toilets currently present a range of significant issues, including structural damage and safety concerns. These include a cracked concrete urinal posing a biohazard risk, extensive wall and floor cracking, and trip hazards that require regular intervention. The facility has also required frequent maintenance due to weather damage and ongoing cleaning challenges," Ms Johnston added.
Ms Johnston said Council had undertaken extensive consultation with key user groups over several years and all groups have been aware of Council's long-term plans for the site.
"Public toilets within recreation reserves are generally only opened when event organisers request access for specific events. To support ongoing activities at this precinct, a range of alternative amenities remain available, including facilities at the CFA track, Show Society buildings, grandstand, football and cricket clubrooms, and the leisure centre. Additional public amenities are also available at Alan Garden Recreation Reserve," she said.
During demolition works, pedestrian access along Pritchard Street may be impacted for approximately half a day. Traffic management measures will be in place, including a spotter onsite to safely direct pedestrians. All other works will be contained within the site.
Council thanks the community for its understanding as these works are carried out and remains committed to maintaining safe, accessible and fit-for-purpose public facilities across the municipality.
