In larger cities, it is usually not a problem to find a public "quiet place" when your bladder pinches. Whether the toilet is clean and functional, however, is another matter. Many cities in Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt are fighting against vandalism and soiling - and pay tens of thousands of euros every year.
This is the case in Magdeburg, for example. "Recurring challenges and difficulties in connection with public toilets are the regular defacement with graffiti and vandalism," said Magdeburg city spokesperson Michael Reif when asked. However, graffiti and vandalism are not the only problems, he added. The toilets are also frequently blocked - for example when hygiene products are disposed of in them. Sand is also often found in the pools at facilities near a playground.
According to Reif, there are currently 17 toilet facilities in the state capital of Saxony-Anhalt. An eighteenth has been demolished and is to be rebuilt. According to the information, operating the facilities costs the city 414,000 euros per year.
