PUBLIC toilets considered an eyesore will be screened off under plans to make a Kidlington open space more welcoming.

Cherwell District Council is set to spend £20,000 on improvements, including screens around the toilets in the circular paved Piazza.

The cash will also go on Welcome to Kidlington information and extra lighting, planting and signs.

It is part of £100,000 allocated to Cherwell District Council from a Government fund set up after a review of high streets by retail expert Mary Portas.

Critics, including Kidlington Parish Council had long complained that the 1990s toilet block ruined the look of the Piazza, off High Street.

A council report says it is “a major focal point for Kidlington’s shopping area” as it is between a car park and the centre. The screens will “enhance the appearance of a prominent yet unsightly public facility”. The work is expected to be completed next March.

Kidlington parish council’s David Robey said: “We’re very pleased with it. It’s part of a larger scheme which the district council will be supporting to make the Piazza more attractive and welcoming.”

Mr Robey said the two councils discussed moving the “eyesore” toilets but this would be too costly.

Tim Emptage, a Liberal Democrat district councillor for Kidlington South, said: “It’s an excellent plan and will do an awful lot to improve the Piazza and make it more friendly and welcoming place to be.”