Cologne-Mülheim: Controversy about new public toilets!

Cologne-Mülheim: Controversy about new public toilets!

In Cologne-Mülheim, a newly built public toilet on Wiener Platz ensures resentment among the citizens: inside. On closer inspection, large gaps in the doors are revealed, which significantly impair the privacy of the users: inside. Linda Rennings from the “Homemade in Cologne” association and street worker Franco Clemens express strong criticism of this design. Clemens even sees the construction as a "invitation for tensioners" and emphasizes that many small and large people could also catch an unwanted view of the columns. These grievances are not only referred to by the street workers, but also by Mülheim district mayor Norbert Fuchs.

The problems are not new: residents have had a public toilet since Corona pandemic: inside and street workers. When the city of Cologne finally became active and the facility installed, there were quickly negative feedback. The doors were designed in such a way that users are literally exposed to others in the view of others. This is not only uncomfortable, but also a risk for groups in need of protection, especially for homeless women who often have to use the relevant systems.

improvements in sight

like ksta.de , the waste management companies (AWB) have now recognized and plan the construction errors. AWB managing director Susi Luan announced that the height of the doors should be adjusted in the future. In order to reduce the visual axes, which can be viewed by higher windows, perforated sheets are to be installed on the door openings in the coming weeks. This measure is intended to reduce visibility without endangering the basic security concepts of the toilet.

The original design of the toilet was chosen with a view to safety aspects to prevent abuse. However, a test has shown that the doors can be photographed from below, which only reinforces the concern of Clemens and racing. This shows that with its approach, the city of Cologne remains far behind the needs of its citizens: inside, which would like a safe and protected opportunity to use public toilets.

further developments in the Cologne toilet Situation

In addition to the planning feedback on the toilet on Wiener Platz, there is also positive news: a new toilet on Kostgasse in the old town of Cologne has already been opened. This toilet offers various uses and is equipped with stainless steel interior, which includes both sinks, soap and hands dryers. The special thing about it is that it is free of charge around the clock, which uses use for all Cologne names: inside and visitors: Interior considerably.

In a larger context, the topic of public toilets is not only relevant in Cologne, but also affects a global debate about sanitary facilities. Projects such as you are listed on BMZ.de work on creating women-friendly and accessible sanitary facilities for all people. The need to take into account the needs of disadvantaged groups is becoming increasingly clear. The supply of secure sanitary facilities can significantly improve the participation in public life, especially for girls and women.

It will be all the more important for the city of Cologne to learn from the current situation and to listen to the suggestions of its citizens in the future: inside. Because safe, private and hygienic toilet supply is important for everyone - this applies not only in Mülheim, but everywhere.