Dozens of locations across Moray have signed up as part of a comfort scheme launched following the closure of public toilets across the region.
Two years ago, the council ran more than 30 conveniences but that total has been reduced by a third, to just one per community, following budget cuts.
Volunteers have stepped-up to maintain and clean sites instead but the move has raised concerns about infrastructure for tourists.
Some popular locations have been left without any access to loos.
Now the council has launched a Moray-wide comfort scheme to try and fill the gap, with businesses offering their own toilets without passers-by needing to spend money to use the facilities.
Libraries, cafes, hotels and swimming pools are part of the scheme, which boasts 26 locations across Moray in communities including Aberlour, Burghead, Buckie, Cullen, Fochabers, Forres, Garmouth, Keith and Lossiemouth.
Lisa Farley, visitor centre manager of Spey Bay’s Scottish Dolphin Centre, has backed the initiative as a way of providing clean and safe toilets and baby changing facilities on the coast.
Council leader Graham Leadbitter added: “It’s great to see members of the business community working in partnership with the council to provide valuable comfort facilities for residents and visitors to the area.”
A separate comfort scheme launched by Elgin’s business improvement district is already in operation in the town, with pubs and restaurants among the participants.
