A derelict and disused public toilets block which was shut for more than a decade has been reopened as a café in Sutton Green.

The borough’s mayor Cllr Steve Cook cut the official red ribbon at Sutton Green Café's grand opening on Friday (November 16).

After anti-social behaviour and vandalism forced it to close in 2003 there were plans for it to be demolished.

But community efforts saw a rescue bid launched before it was redeveloped into the coffee house it is now.

New aluminium shutters have also been installed at the new café in a bid to prevent issues which blighted the public toilets block from reappearing.

Following the ceremony a selection of both hot and cold foods, as well as cakes and drinks, were served up.

READ: New aluminium shutters for Sutton café amid anti-social behaviour fears

 

Mayor of Sutton Cllr Steve Cook cutting the red ribbon alongside Cllr Marlene Heron (right)

Cllr Ruth Dombey, Sutton Council’s leader, said: “We know how important it is that there are good community facilities in the area.

"I'm here today because I'm absolutely delighted we have managed to save this building, which has a lot of heritage to it.

“We've now converted it, so not only do we have public toilets, we also have a community cafe."

Happy Building Ltd, a construction company in Station Way, helped design the new café before it was officially opened earlier this month.

Cllr Marlene Heron, Sutton Local Committee chair, said: “I'm absolutely thrilled and so proud of everyone involved.”