Owen Temple

I’ve had a number of approaches from people regarding the proposed new swimming pool which will be a 25 metre pool and therefore smaller than the current pool. There is also to be a 12 metre learner pool.

According to the presentation to the council, opinion is split down the middle. General users of the pool have called for the retention of a 33 metre pool, but the Amateur Swimming Club have called for a 25 metre pool because “any other size disadvantages swimmers when training for competitions.”

Then you add funding into the mix. Apparently Sport England are prepared to contribute towards a 25 metre pool, but not towards a 33 metre pool. A 33 metre pool by definition costs more so this is an obvious “double whammy”.

Now the User Group have suggested a “compromise arrangement” where there is an 8 lane, 25 metre pool with the 12 metre learner pool attached at one end. The pools would need to be divided by some kind of moveable boom which could be withdrawn at certain times to allow swimmers a longer and bigger pool to swim in. This would allow the 25 metre training facility that the swimming club desire, whilst also enabling a bigger pool to be provided for general swimming at certain times.

If it’s possible, the attraction is obvious. What I’m particularly interested to find out is whether such a facility exists anywhere else and, if it does, what the cost implications are.

As always, I’d be interested in your views and, more especially, any expertise you have in this area.