Eastbourne Borough Council did not introduce the first public ladies' toilets until 1900, according to historian Kevin Gordon. This was despite the town's significant growth into a fashionable seaside resort during the Victorian era, attracting thousands of tourists annually.
The lack of facilities was highlighted during a boat race in 1870, when over 1,000 people reportedly used a small stable near the pier. This event prompted the council to address the issue, leading to the installation of one of the first public toilets, for men only, near the Wish Tower slopes in 1873.
Plans for public toilets were not universally supported, with the Duke of Devonshire reportedly opposing them on his land, referring to them as 'violations of public decency'. Gordon stated that the council, which was male-led, had previously turned down proposals for ladies' facilities.
The town's increasing popularity, with thousands arriving by train, ultimately prompted the council to take action, Gordon said.