Residents are being asked to be vigilant following a spate of attacks by vandals at public toilet blocks across Tendring.
The latest incidents saw two public toilets, operated by Tendring District Council (TDC), targeted in Walton last Wednesday night (8 May).
A service room door was damaged and stock was removed at the block in Southcliff Promenade while sink taps were broken and toilet rolls were stolen at the loos in Kino Road.
Vandals also smashed toilet cubicle doors into pieces at the West Greensward toilet block in Clacton on the evening of Thursday, 2 May.
It comes after facilities in Pier Gap, Clacton, and at the Tennis Court in Lower Marine Parade, Dovercourt, were hit last month.
Damage included toilet roll dispensers being broken open, damage to sanitary bins, sinks being blocked, and walls, floors and ceilings being plastered with wet toilet paper.
Councillor Peter Kotz, TDC Cabinet Member for Assets, called on residents to report criminal damage or suspicious behaviour.
“These mindless acts of vandalism are deplorable and have once again caused thousands of pounds of damage,” he said.
“This latest spate of vandalism is becoming increasing frustrating and taxpayers in Tendring have once again been left counting the cost of repairs and the clear-up operation.
“These attacks demonstrate a lack of respect for facilities that are used by residents and visitors, allowing them to enjoy our town centres and seafronts.
“I reiterate that we do not want to be spending taxpayers’ money on repairs that could otherwise be spent on maintenance.
“I am calling on residents to support us in keeping our facilities in a good condition by reporting any vandalism they witness or suspicious behaviour at our facilities to contact the police or the council’s anti-social behaviour reporting line.
Witnesses to the incidents are encouraged to report criminal damage directly to Essex Police at www.essex.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/.
Alternatively, report anti-social behaviour to TDC’s anti-social behaviour reporting answerphone on 01255 686359 or email asb@tendringdc.gov.uk.