Wells is on the cusp of a significant shift in the management of its local amenities as the City Council deliberates taking control of the Union Street public toilets.

The potential change in hands comes as Somerset Council faces a daunting £100m budget shortfall, prompting considerations to shutter all 25 of its public conveniences in a bid to save over £300,000.

The threat of losing these vital facilities has galvanised Wells City Council into action, prompting a thorough examination of the feasibility and financial ramifications of keeping the toilets open under local governance.

In a bid to avert the closures, Somerset Council has floated a proposition: Wells City Council could maintain the operation of the toilets with a £24,000 contribution.

This suggestion has ignited intense discussions among council members, who are now scrutinising the cost-effectiveness of assuming direct management of the facilities.

Tasked with this critical assessment, the Town Clerk is conducting an in-depth exploration of transitioning from external contracts to in-house oversight. This comprehensive analysis aims to unpack the operational, financial, and logistical facets of such a pivotal move, highlighting the council's commitment to safeguarding public amenities.

As Wells stands at a crossroads, the community awaits further updates on this pressing issue. The city's proactive stance underscores a broader dialogue on the sustainability and funding of public services, marking a potential turning point in how essential amenities are preserved for public use.