First Public and Wheelchair-Accessible Toilets Opened in Oosterpark, Amsterdam
Text by: Toilet Alliantie
On Sunday, June 1st, the first public restroom was officially opened in Oosterpark during the Oosterpark Day event for residents and visitors. This unique facility was developed by Sanitronics in collaboration with the Municipality of Amsterdam. Sanitronics is a partner of the Toilet Alliance, an initiative founded by the Dutch Digestive Diseases Foundation (MDL Fonds) to improve the accessibility of public toilets throughout the Netherlands.
One in five people stays home out of fear that there won’t be a toilet available.
Innovative Technology: the ‘Revolving Toilet’
The new restrooms in Oosterpark feature the innovative ‘Revolving Toilet’ system developed by Sanitronics. This system ensures that the toilet is automatically cleaned and disinfected after each use, thanks to a rotating cabin mechanism, keeping it consistently clean. Each unit contains two toilets, one of which is wheelchair accessible. Usage costs just 10 cents per visit—a small fee aimed at discouraging vandalism. Additionally, the toilet is cleaned within 20 seconds, allowing visitors to use it without long waiting times.
The Importance of Accessible Toilets
More public and accessible toilets allow people to move around more freely and feel less isolated. People with digestive or liver conditions, bladder issues, the elderly, women, and children often need to use the restroom more frequently than others.
One in five people sometimes or regularly stays home out of fear that there won’t be a toilet available. Additionally, only one in three public toilets is wheelchair accessible, making it difficult for people with disabilities to go out.
Quality public restrooms are essential to ensure that everyone can comfortably leave their home and participate in society. More toilets also help reduce public urination and defecation, making cities cleaner and more pleasant for everyone.
More Public Toilets to Follow
The opening during Oosterpark Day marks the start of a larger initiative. In the coming months, nine more of these innovative toilets will be installed, including locations at Museumplein and Vondelpark. With this, Amsterdam is taking a major step toward improving public sanitation facilities throughout the city.
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