CONCERNS have been raised over reported illegal sexual activities at a public toilets in Penarth.

The council-owned toilets on Albert Road are a notorious hotspot for so-called 'gay cruising', where gay men look to meet others for casual, sexual encounters.

Whilst cruising is not illegal, sexual activity in a public lavatory is prohibited under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

Penarth resident Anthony Malfatti, 42, said he had recently walked in on three men behaving suspiciously in the toilets.

"As I walked in I saw three gentleman. Initially I didn't know what they were doing and one appeared to be just hanging around. They were acting very suspiciously," he said.

"I asked them 'what's going on?' and they just darted off."

Mr Malfatti said he was concerned about the effect on any children who may walk in and witness something.

"I felt like I had to get out of there straight away and report it to the police. I've got a six-year-old son and there are other children who may go in there - it's not a nice thought that they might see something like that.

"Obviously there's an ongoing issue and it seems to be a little bit out of control."

The use of the Albert Road toilets as a meeting point for 'cruisers' is longstanding and there have been at least two convictions since 2013 for engaging in sexual activities on the premises. There are also a number of cruising websites promoting the toilets as a popular venue for meeting potential partners.

South Wales Police confirmed in a statement that they are aware of the issue and have posted signs warning cruisers that the vicinity is being monitored.

Neighbourhood Sergeant Julie Madoc-Smart said: "We have long been aware that these facilities have been used on occasion for inappropriate liaisons. I would like to reassure the community that we take the issue seriously and that local officers carry out regular patrols to discourage any anti-social or illegal activities.

"We will take action against anyone intending to use the facility for anything other than its intended purpose.

"We would encourage anyone with information to call South Wales Police 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800555111."

Vale of Glamorgan council, who are responsible for the upkeep of the facility, also confirmed that they had been notified of the issue and were taking steps to prevent further incidents.

Cllr Geoff Cox, Vale of Glamorgan cabinet member for neighbourhood services and transport, said: "We are aware of this problem at Albert Road toilets and have been working with the police to combat it. The police have previously used surveillance in the area and an individual was successfully prosecuted last year."