AN Irvine toilet block will be knocked down in January.

The toilets in East Road will be closed in the New Year – once the £20 million Portal Leisure Centre is up and running.

Situated in the middle of the East Road car park, the toilet block has been a focal point for anti-social behaviour and drug misuse over the years.

But it will soon be closed following a decision by councillors almost 12 months ago.

In February, councillors agreed at the annual budget meeting to save the public toilets at Irvine Beach Park after a fierce backlash from Irvine residents.

No opposition was received, however, for plans to dispose of the East Road block.

The Portal will now serve as the main access to public toilets in Irvine town centre.

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “The decision to close the public toilets at East Road was confirmed at the annual budget meeting earlier this year, in light of a need to balance reducing resources with an increased demand for services. 

“The Portal is due to open on January 27 and, like many of our community facilities, will have public toilets within the main entrance.”