A Shopping Centre in Wales Has The Best Loos in the UK – It's Official!
By Community Correspondent
A retail destination in Wales has been recognised for having the finest public washrooms in the UK. St David’s Dewi Sant in Cardiff secured the top national honour at this year’s Loo of the Year Awards.
The annual ceremony was held at the National Motorcycle Museum, where 16 organisations and individuals celebrated success after impressing judges with the quality of their facilities.
More than 1,500 businesses from across the country submitted their away-from-home washrooms for inspection.
Independent assessors travelled nationwide, reviewing each site against detailed standards covering cleanliness, accessibility and overall presentation.
Now in its 38th year, the awards programme is organised by Becky Wall BEM and Charles Wall, recognising venues that demonstrate exceptional standards in public conveniences.
Becky Wall said this year saw a record number of new entrants willing to have their facilities independently reviewed. She added that many participants welcomed constructive feedback to help further raise standards, noting that well-maintained washrooms are a vital part of customer experience and staff wellbeing.
At St David’s Dewi Sant, washroom services are delivered by a dedicated on-site team employed by Mitie.
The Cardiff centre achieved the highest overall score across 101 judging criteria, outperforming all other entrants nationwide.
Mathew West, Cleaning and Environmental Manager, accepted the award on behalf of his colleagues. He said the team was delighted with the recognition, explaining that they take immense pride in maintaining high standards. With annual footfall reaching around 30 million visitors, he noted the team works tirelessly to ensure facilities remain spotless and welcoming.
Wales also celebrated further success on the night, with the Rees family receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The family operates Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park, located in the Brecon Beacons. Established in the 1990s by Gerwyn Rees and his late wife Liz, the site is now managed by Gerwyn and his sons, Craig and Morgan.
Having supported the awards for many years, the family described the recognition as both unexpected and deeply moving.
Gerwyn reflected on how the business began almost by chance, recalling how a light-hearted decision to put up a handmade roadside sign led to their first paying guests. What started modestly has grown into a thriving family enterprise, built over decades and continued by the next generation.
