Outraged contractors in Ballater aren’t feeling flush with cash after being charged 20p to use public toilets while working to help the village rally from Storm Frank.
A joiner, who has been sub-contracted by Bancon Construction to help flood victims clear their homes, claimed that hundreds of workers in Ballater are being forced to pay 20p to use the restroom every time that nature calls.
Joiner, Edward Coutts, has worked in Ballater since January and fears the money will soon add up because he could be there for over a year.
Mr Coutts said: “There are hundreds of workers here and when I have to pay 20p to use the toilet, is totally unfair.
“I don’t see why we should pay our council tax and then pay for an essential. I would be of a different mind if I was coming up here with my wife and my kids.
“[In these circumstances] I would happily pay, but I grudge paying probably 60p a day when I could be here for over a year. That’s money I’d rather give to my daughters. It’s just a joke.
“I am disappointed that this is happening, I pay my taxes, I am doing something to help those who have had a rough time of it – who knows how long I’ll be here or how much it will cost?”
However, not everyone in the community was sympathetic about their position.
Local resident, Steven McKay responded that some portaloos had been put in place for workers, but said the latter didn’t want to use them.
He added: “I think those complaining are being totally unreasonable. I’ve heard a few lads complaining, but you just think to yourself: ‘Come on, people have lost their homes here.’
“I’m pretty sure there are some portaloos available, but obviously they want the hot water and the heating provided in the public facilities.
“The council have done enough for the people here. If everyone wanted to use my loo, I would charge 20p too!”
A spokesman from Aberdeenshire Council said it was an issue for workers to take up with their individual employers.
Mr Coutts’ employers, Bancon Construction, could not be reached for comment.