Single-sex toilets to be required in new restaurants and bars under proposed laws

Single-sex toilets are to become a legal requirement for new restaurants and bars in England under government plans.

Changes to regulations will mean that new hospitality venues, shopping centres and offices will be required to provide separate toilets for women and men.

Self-contained toilets for both sexes can be provided by businesses in addition or instead of single-sex spaces if there is not enough space.

The changes, which will affect England only, will apply to new non-domestic buildings or those which undergo a change of use.

The proposals were announced by the government over the weekend. It followed a consultation process, which found that 81% of respondents agreed with the intention for single-sex toilet facilities, while 82% agreed with the intent to provide universal self-contained toilets where space allowed.

Kemi Badenoch, minister for women and equalities, said the change would "create better provision for women so that our particular biological, health and sanitary needs are met".

Schools, care homes, cells in custodial facilities and premises for early years provision will be exempt from the rules.

The Caterer has contacted the government to clarify how the change will impact hotels.

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