New Pool Takes Shape

The countdown is well underway as the new swimming pool for the north of the County at Leominster takes shape.

It means the thousands of tiles lining the pool have been laid and that the pool itself will be filled with around 100,000 gallons of water later this autumn.

“We’re on target for the new pool to be handed over by the end of the year with the official opening in January 2006 after the facility has been commissioned,” said Cllr Roy Stockton, Cabinet Member (Community Services).

“This is very exciting for all the swimmers in and around Leominster who have missed going for a dip on their doorstep following the closure of the old pool at Sydonia.”

The pool was closed in 2001 after a series of independent structural, mechanical, and electrical plant surveys were undertaken alongside in depth health and safety assessments over a number of weeks.

Although the pool could have been closed to allow repairs, these would have only been temporary and provided a short-term solution.

It would have also meant that the pool would not comply with the Disability Discrimination Act.

Herefordshire Council had already begun consultation on a replacement pool prior to the original pool’s closure.

“Repairs to the pool would only have extended the life of the pool for a short period and would have given us poor value for money. We’re delighted that we’ve been able to join forces with the We Want Our Pool group to provide a first class facility like this,” said Cllr Stockton.

“The new six-lane competition pool with an additional learner bay, makes this the largest pool in the County and ranks alongside that provided for the residents in and around Hereford City,” he added.

Roger Hunt, Chairman of the We Want Our Pool group, said it had been crucial from the outset that the pool should be both deliverable and capable of meeting the needs of the local community.

“Thanks to the contribution of WWOP it has been possible to enhance the original specification and add significant value to this marvellous facility.

“This has been a good example of partnership working for the benefit of a local community and we’re delighted with the progress so far and can’t wait until the official opening early in the new year,” added Roger.

“We’ve got our swimming costumes and swimming trunks at the ready!” he added.

Workmen are currently installing the heating and lighting at the pool and the process to fill the pool with water and test the heating and pumping system will be tested during December and early January.

The changing rooms have already been constructed and are due to be fitted out with lockers soon and the new reception area – which will link the pool to the existing leisure centre – is beginning to take shape.

“This is a very exciting time for all those who love swimming in the north of the County. It’s taken us a while to get this far, but judging by the progress so far, the people of this area will soon have a first class facility to be proud of,” added Cllr Stockton.