When it comes to public amenities, Australians expect a certain level of privacy and safety, especially in family-friendly spaces. However, the community surrounding Allenby Gardens Reserve in Adelaide has been left in a state of discomfort and anger due to what many are calling 'scandalous' public toilet facilities.

The heart of the issue lies in the toilet block's cubicle doors, which, to the dismay of park-goers, are see-through. The grated design of these doors has been a part of the park's landscape for some time, but it wasn't until local resident Felicity Graham voiced her concerns last Friday that the matter gained significant attention.

'These doors have apparently been here for years and no one has thought it was an issue,' Felicity reported to 7News, her outline visible through the door as she stood behind it. 'It scares me that there’s a playground behind us and knowing that there’s kids who are vulnerable.'

Locals complained about the Allenby Gardens Reserve's toilet cubicles, as it has see-through doors. Image Credit: Google Maps/Deepak Sharma

The park, a hub for sporting clubs and families, should be a safe haven for all, but the questionable toilet doors have cast a shadow over this community space. Brianna Warne, another concerned local and mother, echoed Felicity's unease, telling the publication that she often brings her children to the park but feels uneasy about letting them use the toilets. 'It’s very strange, it’s very inappropriate,' she stated.

The outcry from the community has not fallen on deaf ears. The City of Charles Sturt council has acknowledged the problem and taken immediate action. In a statement, the council announced that temporary privacy screens were installed on the toilet doors to provide immediate relief to the situation. 'Charles Sturt recognises these doors do not provide adequate privacy and to ensure safety this long weekend, we are installing temporary screens today,' the council said.

The council's swift response also included a commitment to a more permanent solution, with plans to replace the see-through doors entirely. 'Our intent is to create safe public spaces and increase passive surveillance, however, these doors are not appropriate and will be fixed,' the council assured.

This incident at Allenby Gardens Reserve raises broader questions about the design and maintenance of public facilities. Privacy in public toilets is a basic expectation, and the balance between safety, surveillance, and privacy is a delicate one. The council's response is a reminder that community feedback is vital in shaping public spaces that are safe and comfortable for everyone.

We at the Seniors Discount Club understand the importance of having secure and private amenities, especially when enjoying Australia's beautiful parks with family. We commend the residents who spoke up and the council for their prompt action to rectify the issue.

Key Takeaways

• Some locals at Allenby Gardens Reserve in Adelaide are outraged over the see-through cubicle doors of the public toilets, which they deem inappropriate.
• Residents, including Felicity Graham, have expressed concern for the safety and privacy of children using the toilets near a playground.
• The City of Charles Sturt council has acknowledged the issue and installed temporary privacy screens on the toilet doors with plans to replace them.
• The council's intent was to increase passive surveillance to create safe public spaces but admits the current doors are not appropriate.

Have you encountered similar issues with public facilities in your area? How did your local council respond? Share your experiences with us, and let's discuss the importance of maintaining the standards of our public spaces. Your stories and insights are valuable, and they help ensure that our communities remain places where everyone, regardless of age, can feel safe and respected.

 

[Dynamo]

A few years ago while travelling we came across toilets near Kingoonya with no doors in the centre of a dirt road. Hopefully they have been upgraded now!

 

[Ezzy]

Not much thought went into the planning of these doors. Perhaps the designer thought they were fashionable but forgot to ask if they were functional?

 

[marni]

So cheap and easy to fix - just paint the doors