PLANS to redevelop a toilet block which has fallen into "poor" condition in Poole have been revealed.

The proposals seek to convert and extend the existing Baiter Park toilet building into a cafe while maintain public conveniences on site, although with just two cubicles.

Mass outcry formed last year when the toilets, along with many others in the town, were closed by Borough of Poole.

Following protests and campaigning - including from the Daily Echo - there was a shock U-turn from the authority as the Baiter Park facilities opened in August - four months after they first shut.

The council is now seeking approval for the cafe plans, before carrying out a tender process to secure an operator for the developed facility.

The site currently has a mobile catering unit on a short licence.

Designs for the development show an internal seating area as well as a large external terrace and two public toilet cubicles and one staff toilet.

A statement submitted alongside the application says a good quality, more permanent catering offer could significantly enhance visitor experience.

It also says: "The existing toilet facility is not sustainable and this proposal will improve both the facilities and services offered within the park and seek to sustain public toilet provision.

"The building, which is in need of modernisation and improvement, will conform to modern standards and visitor expectations.

"A visually enhanced building will be created, in keeping with the natural surroundings of the park and ensuring that visitors can continue to participate in sport and recreation and activities and thereby promoting healthy lifestyles."

The statement adds that the proposal would stimulate greater community engagement and benefit other stakeholders and users of the park.

Any future operator of the facility would be required to provide publicly accessible toilets.

Members of Borough of Poole's cabinet discussed the scheme last month along with other development projects for Harbourside Park.

This included enhancing the sports changing, catering and public toilet facilities at Whitecliff Recreation Ground Pavilion.

On the council's overall attempt to develop the facilities, Cllr John Rampton, cabinet member for environment and open spaces, said: "It is part of our policy as per the original decision to get private operators running these facilities to improve them.

"They are both part of our approach to working with partners to get better facilities for people."