The Walgett Shire Council’s Health and Building surveyor, Len Smyth created the design for the 7.68m x 8.8m toilet block. Several options were considered, but Smyth’s design was agreed upon because it appealed to all ages. Its trendy setting and urban streetscape design is said to appeal to the younger population in particular.

The toilet block, which will cost $133,000 in total, is to be erected on the vacant block between the BP Service Station and the Lightning Ridge Caravan Park on Harlequin Street. This location has been chosen because it is very central to the business area of Lightning Ridge. This will allow travelling tourists, as well as locals, to access it easily.

Bowyer Constructions was chosen to erect the toilet block because the company had completed similar projects in the past. In addition, the company was the lowest bidding tenderer.

The toilet block, which was initially expected to be operational by mid-February 2010, is scheduled for completion in June this year. According to the Walgett Shire Council, the contractor has ordered the materials and site layout will start next week.