Leith Links Public Toilets: Drainage Remediation Works June Update

We are currently carrying out final post-construction checks before the toilets can safely reopen to the public. These include a topographic survey and a CCTV survey of the new drainage network to confirm that the construction meets requirements and is ready for long-term operation.

Subject to completion of these final verification checks, we remain on track to reopen the toilets in early June 2026 and are working to bring this forward wherever possible.

Challenges encountered during works

The remediation works were more complex than initially anticipated. During the groundworks, the contractor encountered a number of unexpected challenges, including:

• An unexpected cast iron water main was uncovered during the groundworks, requiring adjust the construction methodology.
• To improve the resilience and long-term performance of the new drainage network, additional works were carried out to encase sections of the drainage pipework, strengthening the system against ground movement and future wear.
• A water leak was identified during the works, caused by poor installation from the original construction phase. This has been fully resolved as part of the current remediation.
• One of the electrical cables in proximity to the toilet was accidentally damaged. An electrician has been arranged to carry out the repair, and we estimate this will be completed by the end of the week (31 May).

Despite these additional challenges, the project team and contractor Healthmatic have worked effectively to address each issue, and minimise disruption and delays on site.

Temporary Facilities

The temporary chemical toilets have now been removed from site.

While every effort was made to keep these facilities accessible during the works, repeated incidents of antisocial behaviour created ongoing safety concerns for both users and the colleagues responsible for servicing and maintaining them.

We appreciate that this may cause inconvenience in the short term and are working hard to reopen the permanent facilities as soon as possible.

What happens next

Following completion of the physical works and before reopening, the following final checks will be completed:

• A post-construction topographic survey to verify ground reinstatement and confirm the works have been completed to the required standard.
• An independent CCTV survey of the new drainage network to confirm compliance with Scottish Water requirements and suitability for long-term operation.

Once both surveys have been completed and signed off, final operational checks will be carried out before the toilets are reopened to the public.

Background

The Leith Links public toilets were temporarily closed in December 2025 following the identification of issues affecting the drainage network.

For further background information, please see Leith Links Public Toilets: May Update.

For further information regarding the reopening of Leith Links Public Toilet and remediation works, please email us at thrivinggreenspaces@edinburgh.gov.uk.

For enquiries regarding public toilets in Edinburgh, please email public.conveniences@edinburgh.gov.uk.