Boost for Hereford pool

4:08pm Thursday 24th April 2008

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A HEREFORD swimming pool which closed before Christmas could soon be back in business.

Herefordshire councillors have suggested a rescue plan to save St Martin’s swimming pool.

Housebuilders’ funds and a budget review could play a part, according to the Children’s Service Scrutiny Committee.

But they need a commitment from local schools - and the backing of full council.

The group met on Monday to discuss the Local Education Authority (LEA) pool, at Hollybush Walk, Hinton.

The pool - which closed last December following boiler and structural problems - faces an estimated £72,500 repair bill, and is exceeding running costs by a projected £50,000 a year.

The closure was a blow to 38 local schools, forced to move lessons to the HALO-run Hereford swimming pool.

But those schools could save the pool by backing a three-year charge, covering the net costs of the facility.

Members also recommended refinancing the pool, and suggested using developers’ contributions.

Councillor Sally Robertson, chair of the scrutiny committee, called the pool a valuable community asset.

“The general feeling in the meeting was that the council needs to do all it can to reopen the St Martin’s swimming pool,” said coun Robertson. “It is a dedicated learning pool and serves local schools and swimming clubs very well.” The recommendation will be heard by councillors at the end of May.