Sir – It was refreshing to see, in your coverage of The Great Public Lavatory Controversy (July 2), due attention being given to a subject which concerns universal human needs — as opposed to the usual narrow debates about cycle paths and bus gates. Indeed, I should think that the European Court of Human Rights will have something to say if the council presses ahead with its proposed lavatory closures.

You rightly point to the Continental model as one to follow.

If, as in many countries, a charming but fearsome elderly lady were sitting at the entrance charging a few pence for use of the facilities, various problems would be solved. The lavatories could become self-financing, as well as providing much-needed employment.

The lavatories would be spick-and-span and there would always be toilet paper.

On spotting the Guardian of the Lavatory, vandals would quickly turn on their heels and make a run for it. And, as for what you euphemistically call ‘undesirable elements’, well, they wouldn’t stand a chance.

Nigel Clarke, Oxford