Public toilets in Whitton that have been repeatedly vandalised in recent years are set to be improved this month.

The toilets, next to Whitton library, have been damaged on numerous occasions and were last refurbished six years ago.

Recent vandalism rendered them unusable and Richmond Council will temporarily close the facility to carry out the overhaul.

The improvements will include new doors, "vandal-resistant toilets and sinks" as well a redecoration and floor coverings.

Councillor Pamela Fleming, council cabinet member for environment, said: "I was shocked about the damage individuals have caused to the public toilets in Whitton.

"While we deep clean the toilets regularly, in the past few years the council has to carry out a large number of intermediary repairs - including replacing the sinks and toilets on a number of occasions.

"This is not only an additional cost to ratepayers, but also impacts on council’s resources."