The individual who forced the closure of the town’s toilets has been slammed by a councillor.

The facilities down at Farnsby Street have been closed for a number of weeks.

It was initially thought that this was because of City Fibre cutting a cable.

However, it has since been confirmed by Swindon Borough Council that the facilities had been set on fire.

A spokesperson for the council said: “These toilets had to be closed recently after a fire was started in the men’s toilet.

“Considerable damage was caused.

“Apart from the smoke and fire damage, the fire service also had to break down several cubicle doors to make sure there was no one in danger.

“It will have to remain closed until repairs are done and a deep clean is carried out, which could take several weeks.”

Councillor Sean Wilson has slammed the individual responsible for the fire.

He said: "The person who set fire to the toilets should be thoroughly ashamed.

“It is totally mindless that is someone would choose to set fire to a well-used public facility.

“They may well have to use it themselves at some point.

The Freshbrook councillor said the impact would be felt by elderly and disabled residents.

“Over recent years the number of public toilets has dramatically decreased across the country to save money for cash-strapped local authorities.

“Elderly & disabled residents in particular need access to clean, warm facilities in the town centre.

“I have an elderly father & disabled brother who rely on sites such as these"

“The result of the closure could mean residents with continence problems and need quick access to toilets may be caught out.”

“The fire will have a devastating impact on disabled people as this is the only fully accessible Changing place and town centre within the town centre.”