A sign restricting access to a public bathroom at a Burnaby community centre was “put up in error,” according to the city.
The Burnaby NOW reached out to the city for information after a reader sent in a photo of the sign, which had been put up on the door of Charles Rummel Centre.
“No public washrooms,” stated the sign. “Please use outdoor toilet. Thank you.”
The reader said the washroom closure was “troubling” and raised “serious ethical concerns.”
“The denial of access to basic sanitation is concerning, especially as access to water and sanitation is recognized by the United Nations as a fundamental human right,” the reader said in an emailed statement.
After inquiries from the NOW, the city said the sign had been removed and replaced with a sign that says, “When this building is closed, please use the portable restroom located in the park,” according to public affairs officer Cole Wagner.
Charles Rummel Centre at 3630 Lozells Ave. is home to a variety of local programs and activities.
