NEW public toilets could be opening on Canvey after more than £20,000 of funding was announced for the island.

The money from Castle Point Council could see the new facilities built at Labworth and Lubbins car parks.

Last year, councillors received a huge amount of complaints after the toilets were either closed or blocked over summer causing long queues, frustrating daytrippers and residents.

John Anderson, Canvey Independent councillor for Canvey Central, said people will believe they are getting the improvements only when they see them.

He added: “People are getting cheesed off that we are being promised regeneration plans that aren’t going ahead.

“If the funding is being made available it will be welcomed but people want to see it.

“They want to see it built now before next summer.”

Peter Grieg, said: “I think this is to mitigate the loss after the Government cash was refused for the seafront regeneration.

“I am pleased with the possible funding and think a lot of other people will feel the same too.

“It will be good for older people and families who visit the seafront.

“The toilets are in need of a complete overhaul.”

However, Dave Blackwell, Canvey Independent councillor, was disappointed no-one had asked the residents what they wanted to spend the money on.

He said: “I get frustrated about it as there seems to be no communication.

“We expect the council to install wooden benches but that is no good as they could be damaged and encourage people to sit at night and cause antisocial behaviour.

“Of course I welcome this but please speak with the residents.”

Paul Varker, councillor for the environment said it’s a work in progress.

He said: “There is money to be spent but ideas are coming in all the time and nothing is decided yet.

“We are speaking with the public and people in the community about this.”

There could also be £2,000 to go towards new benches for Lubbins and another £2,000 for benches and flower beds in Beveland Road.

The announcement comes just days after news Canvey missed out on government funding for a huge regeneration project on the seafront, with 16 “ready to go” projects instead splitting £6 million.