The Centre Livingston in Scotland has claimed the prestigious title of having the best public ‘loos’ in the UK, winning the overall Loo of the Year Award at the 37th annual ceremony. The awards, which celebrate excellence in public and business washroom facilities, were held at the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull.
More than 1,500 businesses from across the UK participated in this year’s awards, which aim to recognise exceptional washroom facilities, judged by a team of independent inspectors. The ceremony honours those businesses, individuals, and organisations that excel in providing the highest standards of hygiene, accessibility, and customer care.
Becky Wall BEM, the organiser of the Loo of the Year Awards, expressed her pride in supporting businesses across the country. “It’s a privilege for our inspectors to travel the country and help businesses improve their washroom facilities, which play a key part in great customer service,” Wall said. “Celebrating the best of the best and rewarding businesses for their efforts is a wonderful occasion.”
Centre Livingston: A Model of Excellence
The Centre Livingston, the 28th largest shopping centre in the UK, was awarded the overall title of Loo of the Year. Patrick Robbertze, centre director at The Centre Livingston, praised the work of his team: “We are thrilled to receive this recognition. It’s a testament to the fantastic work our team does every day to ensure our visitors have a great experience when they come to the centre.”
Honouring Exceptional Washroom Technicians
Another notable winner was Eva Tamaz-Szora, a washroom technician at Bryndu Caravan Park in the Brecon Beacons. Tamaz-Szora was recognised as the best washroom technician in Wales before being awarded the national title. “I’m so honoured to receive this award. It’s rewarding to be recognised for taking pride in ensuring our guests feel cared for when they visit,” she said.
Lifetime Achievement Award for Martin Jackaman
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Martin Jackaman, 75, from Nottingham, for his outstanding work in the Changing Places Toilet Campaign. Jackaman has played a pivotal role in securing accessible toilets for those with complex needs and their carers. His efforts have contributed to the opening of over 2,500 Changing Places toilets across the UK.
“I’m honoured to receive this award. It’s heartwarming to hear from families who can now enjoy day trips and shopping trips because they have access to suitable washroom facilities. It’s been a long journey, but we’ve made real progress,” Jackaman commented.
Raising the Standard of Public Washrooms
The Loo of the Year Awards operate with a strict grading system, where entrants are subject to unannounced inspections. Each washroom is evaluated based on 101 criteria, including cleanliness, décor, accessibility, and customer care. In 2024, 1,556 businesses participated, with 64 receiving the highest “diamond” grading.
Lee Radzki, sales manager at Essity Professional Hygiene, who sponsors the event’s main sponsor Tork, congratulated the winners: “We’re proud to be part of an event that celebrates excellence in hygiene. The winners have set a high bar with their outstanding facilities, showcasing exceptional cleanliness and accessibility.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
The Loo of the Year Awards are now open for nominations for the 2025 awards process. Anyone can nominate a business for grading, and the company will then receive an unannounced inspection. The ceremony remains an annual celebration, honouring those who set the standard for exceptional washroom facilities across the UK.
