Kaka Point Toilets & Changing Rooms Working Group member Lisa Biginato was one of 22 residents and groups speaking to their submissions during the Clutha District Council annual plan hearings on Thursday.
The group, which sits under Kaka Point Community Group, wants to refurbish or replace the popular Catlins seaside resort’s public toilets and changing rooms, which sit alongside the beach near the centre of the town.
New destination toilets in Milton have just been opened, and a parallel facility in Balclutha is expected to open shortly.
Together, the two projects cost nearly $1.35 million.
Ms Biginato said early cost estimates for a replacement facility in Kaka Point were about $550,000.
That could be reduced by donations of time, expertise, labour and materials from locals, she said.
Comparative estimates for a refurbishment of the toilets and changing rooms had stalled, due to a need for a seismic report.
"At present, we’re seeking funding from council for preliminary work on the project, part of which would be a seismic report allowing us to assess possible costs of refurbishment."
Preliminary work could also include assessment of alternative locations for the facility and potential cost savings by using existing plans for the Milton and Balclutha toilets, Ms Biginato said.
In common with those projects, the Kaka Point facility could become "destination" toilets.
"Part of the goal would be to encourage visitors to stay and explore Kaka Point a little longer."
Several other submissions were received supporting the proposal for a new facility, including one from Taieri MP Ingrid Leary, presented on her behalf by spokesman Warren Chambers.
Mr Chambers said Ms Leary strongly supported the group’s appeal.
The condition of the current facilities were such that they undermined the hard work of those promoting the area, and made inadequate provision for those with mobility issues, he said.
"We need a facility that reflects the importance of this much-praised destination."
