Calls for refurb of filthy Crystal Palace Park toilets

Hatice Ocal, 65, fell in love with the Victorian park after moving to the area a year ago, but the sole public bathroom across its 200 acres left her “shocked”.

The building is dilapidated, the toilets no longer flush, and the slippery floor is often covered in mud.

Mrs Ocal, who lives nearby with her husband, said: “It’s like something out of a horror film.

Crystal Palace Park's toilets

“The doors are broken, there are no handles or locks, and the frames around the mirrors are crumbling.

“The toilets don’t flush anymore, so obviously it stinks, and there’s often no loo roll, soap or hand sanitiser.

“They shouldn’t be used as they are so unhygienic, particularly in Covid times, but people have to when they are desperate.”

Created in 1854, Crystal Palace Park is Grade II listed and attracts visitors all-year-round with its historic dinosaur sculptures, Sunday market, farm and sports centre.

Hatice launched a petition last month, which has already been signed more than 500 times.

Bromley Council is responsible for the park's upkeep, providing these services via its private contractor idverde.

The petition calls for a comprehensive refurbishment of the toilets, which give “a poor image to both domestic and international visitors”.

One supporter commented: "These are probably one of the worst toilets in London.

"Would much rather wet myself or pee in the bushes then go in here. My children refuse to use these toilets.

"They are truly disgusting and a disgrace to the park.

"So many people come from outside of south east London to visit this park and most likely wouldn't visit again after seeing the state of these awful toilets."

Bromley Council was approached for comment.

Have you got a story for us? You can contact us here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

Sign up to our newsletters to get updates sent straight to your inbox.