From Public Convenience to Commercial Space: Soho's Controversial Transformation
A former public toilet in Soho that gained notoriety as what police described as "the top cottaging spot in the UK" is set to be converted into either a café or retail space under new plans submitted by Westminster City Council.
The Broadwick Street facility, located opposite The Ivy restaurant, was permanently closed in 2021 following repeated reports of sexual activity occurring openly within the premises. According to a Metropolitan Police email seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service before its closure, the behaviour was occurring "directly in front of urinals with no attempt to hide" from legitimate users.
Local Opposition and Broken Promises
The council's latest application has faced significant criticism from local representatives and community groups who argue that Westminster is failing to provide adequate public toilet facilities in the borough.
Lucy Haine, Acting Chair of The Soho Society, expressed strong opposition to the plans, stating: "With ever greater footfall in the area we want a public realm to meet demand, which includes public toilets." She emphasised that the current provision "discriminates against women, the elderly and those less able to access public spaces."
The controversy has also taken on political dimensions, with Conservative councillor Tim Barnes accusing the Labour-led council of breaking election promises. "The public toilets in Soho were a key issue in the 2022 local elections and Labour promised they would all be reopened within months," he said. "But instead of opening them as toilets they are all being sold off to become coffee shops."
Council's Defence and Investment Plans
Westminster City Council has defended its position, with Councillor David Boothroyd, Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform, stating that the application aims to create "a safer and more welcoming environment in the West End."
The council points to significant investment in public facilities, including £12.7 million for refurbishing eight West End public toilets and over £2 million on upgraded Automated Public Conveniences. They note that Broadwick Street now has an above-ground automated and accessible facility replacing the problematic underground toilets.
A council spokesperson confirmed that a previously agreed 25-year lease with Lift Coffee had stalled and that the company's option to let the property has now expired. The new application seeks permission for "café or retail use" and includes removal of the existing air conditioning unit on Broadwick Street.
Documents filed with the application state that the change will "significantly improve the value of the site, drawing in activity and interest" while creating a "unique space for the borough." Any income generated from the transformation will support further investment in council services.
The council also highlighted additional measures including a network of temporary toilets deployed during weekends and major events, plus 24/7 street cleaning services to address problems like public urination.
Despite these assurances, The Soho Society remains committed to fighting the change of use, having repeatedly lobbied the council on the issue and supporting last year's "Caught Short" study recommendations on improving toilet provision in Soho.
