DRUG-debris bins installed in Bridgwater toilets to combat the recent increase in drug use have prompted mixed reactions.

Sedgemoor District Council has placed purpose-built syringe bins in Penel Orlieu, Blake Gardens and Taunton Road's toilet for users to put their sharp waste, after dozens of reports of discarded needles.

The bins feature a non-returnable lid to keep hands out and prevent access to their contents. The toilets are inspected and bins emptied daily.

There is growing concern over the public health and safety risk from discarded syringes, and especially to young children.

One Blake Gardens user, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: "It's outrageous, the bins don't tackle drug problems; if anything they promote it, as drug users can now live comfortably that their problem is being hidden by the council.

"Also, it's just the council pretending to care but not actually doing anything to stop it going on."

Another resident said: "I can see where they are coming from, God forbid a child uses the loos and hurts themselves. It's not a solution but it does make the toilets a little safer."

There has been a rise in discarded syringes at these locations, and in consultation with Turning Point, the bins were introduced to provide a safer means of disposal, thereby protecting the public in general. Council street scene officer Reg Winslow said: "In response, it's not our place and purpose to stop drug taking, that is the job of the Turning Point group, for example.

"We are here to protect the public and the bins are a measure to keep needles out of harms way.

"They are not vulnerable to vandalism and who would want to?

"They are emptied regularly and we cannot say why there has been a recent increase in drug use but toilets are warm and safe for drug users to use."