PUBLIC toilets in the East Riding are undergoing a £2 million makeover.

So far, 14 toilets have been refurbished at a cost of £1 million, with nine toilets still to be refurbished, costing a further £1 million.

East Riding Council defended the amount spent, claiming it will save between £140,000 and £230,000 a year in cleaning and maintenance costs and lower water and energy bills.

The aim of the programme, which has already seen upgrades in Beverley, Bridlington, Goole, Hedon, Hessle, Withernsea, Mappleton, Willerby and Kilnsea, is to make them more attractive to residents and visitors.

The council told the Mail the equipment was chosen because it was long-lasting, robust and easy to clean.

External work has also been carried out to some of the facilities to fix leaking roofs and damaged buildings.

Margaret Raymond, vice-chairman of Kirk Ella Parish Council, said: "They have done an excellent job with the toilets in Willerby. I cannot fault the new facilities."

The remaining nine toilet blocks will be refurbished in Bridlington, Hornsea, Cottingham, Beverley, Withernsea, Market Weighton and Howden later in the year.

Councillor Stephen Parnaby, leader of East Riding Council, said: "The main reason for undertaking the work was to provide toilet facilities that are fit for purpose, easy to clean and are pleasant for the public to use."

Andrew Allison, spokesman for the Hull and East Riding Taxpayers' Alliance, criticised the spending.

He said: "I cannot believe how much it has cost. It seems to cost a lot to spend a penny, especially considering the cuts in other areas.

"Public toilets do need to be refurbished, but surely the council could have found a better deal."