Bolton signs retailers to StoreLoo scheme

A number of retailers have signed up to a new scheme in Bolton which invites the public to use in-store toilets, even when they're not shopping.

Marks & Spencer, Debenhams, Sainsburys, Whitakers, Market Place, and Crompton Place, have all signed up to Bolton Council's StoreLoo scheme.

The council said shoppers and visitors simply have to look for a large black A5 sized sticker which reads "You're welcome to use our facilities" to know that the store is participating in the initiative.

The Town Hall One Stop Shop in Victoria Square, Bolton Central Library on Le Mans Crescent and Bolton Market on Ashburner Street will also have toilets available to use.

Town hall chiefs are now approaching other town centre shops with toilet facilities to get them on board with the StoreLoo scheme.

Cllr Ismail Ibrahim, Bolton Council's executive member for development and regeneration, said: "StoreLoo means the public won't feel embarrassed if they have to pop into a shop to use the facilities. This scheme boosts Bolton's reputation as the friendliest destination in the North West and we've had very positive feedback and support from our key retailers."

Rob Collins, manager of participating store Marks & Spencer, on Deansgate, added: "StoreLoo is a valuable addition to our strategy to further improve the Bolton visitor experience. We were keen to get involved and the sticker is an ideal way to let people know they are welcome to use our toilets without feeling the need to buy something in return."

The council said Bolton's first town centre 'Changing Places' facility, for profoundly disabled people opened earlier this year in Topp Way multi-storey car park. As well as a toilet it features a changing bench and a ceiling hoist, which is operated electronically and can be used to lift people.