• I WRITE with some sadness and surprise at the decision by Sainsbury’s management to permanently shut the customer toilets at their superstore in Camden Town.

Opened with some fanfare, the toilets were much welcomed, especially by elderly customers and parents with young children. In a modern society, it is what is expected. There is nowhere else in the neighbourhood to use a toilet.

Some elderly and disabled customers, like myself, travel to the store in transport efficiently laid on by Camden Council and its agencies. Having a toilet at the store is one reason many of us use this service.

The toilets have recently been closed, with a sign informing “under repair”. When I asked at the store’s Customer Service desk last Wednesday when the toilets would reopen, I was told: “Never.”

It was explained to me that due to “urine on the floor”, “faeces on the wall” and “anti-social behaviour” managers had decided to close them for good.

Providing basic facilities for customers is making a contribution to society. Withdrawing those facilities can only add to the squalor that is today’s Camden Town. It is a mistake. Please reverse your decision, Sainsbury’s.

ROGER EVANS
Lissenden Gardens
NW5