Newcastle Bigg Market toilets up for sale

The toilets are a familiar site in Newcastle city centre

Toilets in Newcastle city centre could be turned into a bar, a takeaway, or an art gallery.

The city council is inviting bids for the underground premises in the Bigg Market, which closed in April due to access problems and running costs.

Built in 1898, with a metal-framed glass roof, the toilet has one entrance and the facilities are reached by a steep and winding staircase.

It boasts 18 urinals, five cubicles, a cupboard and tiled walls and floor.

Councillor Henri Murison, cabinet member for quality of life, said: "As the building has been in existence for 114 years we believe it has great potential for other uses.

"We would like to hear from anyone who has an imaginative and creative use for them."