A DECISION to board up an historic former bath house on Ilkley moor has sparked outrage in the town.

Councillors and civic groups are appalled that Bradford Council seemed intent on pulling the plug on several centuries of history.

However, following numerous protests, the council has promised to 'review' the position.

Ilkley historian Frazer Irwin has described the initial decision as 'an insult to the people of Ilkley.'

Although the actual bath was removed some time during the late 19th century, the building, just yards from White Wells cottage, still serves as a toilet block for those walking across the moor.

In a letter to parish council clerk Miggy Bailey, the council's graffiti removals manager, Keith Hammerton, said: "It had been our hope that the toilets could be included as part of the lease to the White Wells cottage and caf, but we understand that this is not possible. Accordingly, the unit will be taken out of service and boarded up in the very near future."

This has left parish council chairman Coun Kate Brown (right)

choking with anger at the way the decision has been taken without any consultation.

"I cannot begin to say how angry we are about this. We will be seeking an urgent response from the council. For us to simply be told through this letter is totally unacceptable," she said.

Mr Irwin said the decision was all the more baffling because the block was in a clean state, even though there was no hand washing facilities.

"Someone seems to think they are dealing with an old crumbling toilet block, stuck on Ilkley moor. They clearly have no idea about the importance of this building," he said.

The decision has also provoked an angry attack on the council from Ilkley district councillor Colin Powell.

He said: It is imperative these

toilets are kept open. So many people walk across the moors, as well as those visiting White Wells itself. Bradford describes Ilkley as the jewel in its crown. Well, I have to say that jewel is becoming tarnished."

Coun Powell said there was a clear need for a Friends of White Wells society to help protect the cottage and its surrounding environment for the people of Ilkley.

Ilkley Civic Society is equally disgusted at the decision to close the toilets. Chairman Bob Tilley echoed the thoughts of Coun Brown, Mr Irwin and Coun Powell, in that those wanting to 'pay a visit' now faced a long haul into Ilkley to seek relief.

Mr Tilley said: "This is a toilet block too far. It is a building with some heritage value and that is the point that needs stressing. It certainly needs more consideration."

He said this decision followed the closure of Ben Rhydding's public lavatories last year, facilities which had also been used by visitors coming down from the moor, he said.

Coun Keith Thompson, lead member for waste management, said: "With regard to to the toilets at White Wells, an officer will shortly reassess their condition and review the position." (04-08-AH)

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