Test Valley Borough Council has taken a step closer to refurbishing the toilets in the Chantry Centre after the authority invited builders to bid for the contract.
The move will see the total overhaul of the toilets near the bus station for the benefit of shoppers and visitors to the centre, with the installation of brand new loos, sinks, hand dryers, cubicles as well as the complete redecoration of the facility.
The council will provide temporary toilet facilities in one of the bus station bays during the renovation.
The invitation to tender will close on July 31, with a view to appointing the successful contractor in August.
Earlier this year the council appointed an architect to re-design the toilets and the authority has published the plan as part of the building tender.
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: “The condition of the Chantry Centre toilets have drawn criticism in the past, so as soon as we gained control by purchasing the centre earlier this year, the refurbishment of the toilets has been at the top of our list. I am really pleased that the scheme is moving forward and I look forward to us appointing a contractor in the near future. I am keen for us to undertake the work as quickly as possible to ensure that residents and visitors have access to a high quality facility that is fit for purpose.”
It is anticipated that work will start at the end of summer, with the refurbished toilets expected to re-open towards the end of the year.