PUBLIC toilets in Cliviger are to be closed because of allegations they are being misused by men.

In March this year, extra police patrols were posted in the Burnley Road area after people living nearby complained the men's part of the facility was being improperly used.

Worried residents contacted police and councillors to complain after discovering the wall was daubed with graffiti and lurid messages about sexual acts and telephone numbers.

The problems were said to have increased after another set of public toilets opposite Towneley Park was closed following reports of similar troubles.

A spokesman for Burnley Police said they will continue to monitor the area.

He added: "Following complaints about anti-social behaviour in the toilets at Cliviger, Burnley police made a number of interventions.

"Patrols were stepped up in the area and warning posters were displayed in the toilets.

"In addition, a number of letters were sent out to the registered owners and keepers of vehicles which frequented the area on a regular basis.

"However, in light of recent complaints, we will be looking at the problem again."

People living close to the toilets have raised the issue with local councillors, contacted the police and have passed on the registration numbers of cars parked outside.

Cliviger Parish Council wrote to Burnley Borough Council asking for the toilets to be closed.

The toilets are due to be temporarily boarded up.

A spokesman for Burnley Council said: "We got a letter from the Parish Council asking for the toilets to be closed because of the inappropriate activity that was taking place there. We have effectively agreed to that.

"It could become permanent, subject to further consultation."

Burnley Council was also keen to stress that the borough still has a "proportionately high" number of public conveniences.