A recent report examining restroom availability within London’s Tube network has designated significant portions as “loo deserts.” The study, titled the “London Loo League Table,” highlights the inadequate provision of toilets across the Underground, particularly in zones 1-3. According to the research conducted by Caroline Russell, a member of the Green Party in the London Assembly, less than 25% of stations in these zones offer restroom facilities. Furthermore, the availability of toilets varies considerably among different Tube lines.

The report underscores that while 83% of stations on the Metropolitan line include toilets, a mere 27% of Northern line stations have such facilities. The investigation identified the longest stretch without toilets, spanning between Morden and Kennington stations on the Northern line. This necessitates passengers to wait until the subsequent stop, Elephant & Castle, to access restroom amenities. Another “loo desert” is situated on the District line between Wimbledon Park and Bayswater, encompassing 10 stops and a 22-minute journey.

Surprisingly, even modern stations are deficient in toilet facilities. Notably, the Elizabeth line lacks toilets at three stations, including Bond Street and Canary Wharf. Despite a comprehensive upgrade costing £700 million at Bank station, completed in February, it still lacks toilets.

Caroline Russell expressed concern over the lack of accessible public toilets within the transport system, highlighting the impact on older and disabled individuals. She emphasized the importance of toilets as an integral component of public transport accessibility.

Addressing the delay in the feasibility study promised by Mayor Sadiq Khan, a Transport for London (TfL) spokesperson conveyed the organization’s commitment to exploring ways to enhance and expand toilet facilities across the network. The spokesperson indicated that initial work on the study is underway, and TfL aims to collaborate closely with stakeholders to identify opportunities for improvements.

The “Loo League Table,” categorized by Tube lines, illustrates the variations in restroom accessibility:

Elizabeth Line – 95% (93% accessible)
Metropolitan – 83% (29% accessible)
Jubilee – 63% (52% accessible)
Central – 59% (16% accessible)
Piccadilly – 55% (19% accessible)
Waterloo & City – 50% (50% accessible)
Victoria – 44% (25% accessible)
District – 42% (25% accessible)
Bakerloo – 32% (24% accessible)
Circle – 29% (23% accessible)
Overground – 28% (26% accessible)
Hammersmith & City – 28% (24% accessible)
Northern Line – 27% (21% accessible)
DLR – 11% (11% accessible)
Tram – 10% (8% accessible)

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