Public toilets in Holland-on-Sea closed after suspected arson
Holland Haven Country Park facilities damaged in fire
Public toilets at Holland Haven Country Park in Holland-on-Sea have been closed due to serious damage from a suspected arson attack.
The facilities, owned by Tendring District Council (TDC), were damaged in a fire reported Sunday evening shortly before 7.10pm.
Approximately one hectare of grassland near Manor Way was ablaze, prompting firefighters to respond swiftly.
Significant roof and internal damage to the toilet block has been noted, following the deliberate ignition, according to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service.
Swift action prevented the fire from spreading to nearby areas, including a sailing club.
The damaged facilities will remain closed while assessments and repairs are organised.
Councillor Peter Kotz, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Assets, said: “This is a deeply frustrating and completely needless incident which has taken a valued public facility out of use.
“If this fire was started deliberately, it is a mindless act that has left residents and visitors without toilets at one of our popular open spaces.
“What makes it even more frustrating is that taxpayers’ money will now have to be spent putting this damage right — money that should be used to maintain and improve services for the community, not repair the consequences of suspected arson.
“I am grateful to the fire service for its swift response, which helped stop the fire from spreading further, and I would urge anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area on Sunday evening to report it to Essex Police.”
Details on the repair costs are still under evaluation.
Witnesses or individuals with relevant information are urged to report criminal damage directly to Essex Police via their website.