Narberth swimming pool update

PEMBROKESHIRE Council is in “detailed discussions” with Narberth swimming pool’s action group about the possibility of a community take-over, it has been revealed.
In a letter to Assembly member Joyce Watson, Mark Lewis, director of finance and leisure, confirms the Council is working with the Friends of Narberth Pool (F.O.N.P.) to establish a basis for the community to take over the management and operation of the endangered facility.
The Council has extended the deadline for closure from 1st April to 1st July 2014 to allow the F.O.N.P. to develop their business plan to take over the running of Narberth pool.
Mrs Watson welcomed the latest development. She said:
“This is really positive news. I asked the council to look at the feasibility of transferring Narberth swimming pool to community ownership – I have been involved in a similar project in Harlech, so I know it can work.
“It is clear from the public reaction to the proposed closure just how much the pool means to people, not least our local schools. Hopefully that support will translate in to a robust business plan for saving the facility.”
In December 2013, Pembrokeshire Council’s cabinet recommended that a consultation exercise be undertaken in relation to the proposal to close Narberth Swimming Pool on 1st April 2014.
Between April 2012 and April 2013, the facility had 40,648 paid admissions and a further 10,862 free swimming sessions. 9,237 admissions came from local schools and they would be expected to face the cost of hired transport and face a fifty minute round trip to either facility, threatening the viability of swimming lessons.
For more information about Joyce Watson’s work contact her office on 02920 898972 / www.joycewatson.co.uk