WITH the emergence of spring flowers, we recognise that the start of the holiday period of Easter is approaching. Many of our well-loved holiday destinations will be awaiting the influx of visitors to boost local flagging economies. Nowhere is this more of a reality than on the Island of Arran. This is a destination that depends much on tourism and predictions for tourist numbers for 2017 are good, with an expected 250,000 taking advantage of the Road Equivalent Tariff ferry journey (Reducing the fare by half).

So it is with dismay that we hear of the actions of North Ayrshire Council in its pursuit of saving £35,000 from its budget, actions that will have devastating effects for many, not to mention public health – public toilets on Arran are to close (“Islanders to take on toilets to help keep them open”, The Herald, March 21).

North Ayrshire Council is being hypocritical, because in one hand it is promoting tourism, yet is denying basic services to its visitors.

Health experts have warned that such policies by local authorities are leaving people prisoners, isolated and lonely in their own homes, unable to go out with any ease or assurance. Where is common sense and dignity in such decisions? Clearly being flushed away.

Catriona C Clark,

52 Hawthorn Drive, Banknock, Falkirk.