Plans for a £100,000 refurbishment of the public toilets in Cirencester's Abbey Grounds have been announced.

Cirencester Town Council has commissioned plans for the revamp, which would see the toilets reopened with drainage improvements.

Following numerous delays and setbacks to the scheme, the town council are now applying for planning permission and scheduled ancient monument consent.

The toilets have been beset by problems including vandalism and sewage pipes being breached by tree roots. Hundreds of people signed a petition earlier this year calling for improved toilets in the Abbey Grounds.

Portable toilets have long been in place in front of the permanent toilet blocks, but the announcement brings hope they could be removed in a matter of months.

A statement on the town council's website says: "The project costs are estimated to be in excess of £100k and this will need to be considered as part of the budget consultation and decision making process for 2022-23, as it will have an impact on local council tax.

"To offset some of the cost we have applied for a ‘Changing Places’ Government grant through Cotswold District Council to create a life enhancing accessible toilet and have consulted Access Gloucestershire on the design. Subject to planning and funding being available we aim to complete the work in time for Spring/Summer 2022.

"The estimated cost of the drainage works and refurbishment is based on indicative quotes, local builders are being considered. This is a major project and will be subject to a competitive tender."