Campaigners trying to save an open-air pool are asking people to give their views on its future.Beccles pool is due to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, but may not reopen next summer as from April, it will no longer be run by Waveney District Council.
Campaigners trying to save an open-air pool are asking people to give their views on its future.
Beccles pool is due to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, but may not reopen next summer as from April, it will no longer be run by Waveney District Council.
Talks are continuing about its future, and the Friends of Beccles Open Air Swimming Pool are in the process of setting up a limited company with a view to taking on the long-term management of the pool. They are developing a business plan for running the pool for the next three to five years.
They also plan to apply for charitable status once they are established and have a lease for the pool.
Waveney District Council's scrutiny committee will discuss what the pool's future should be at its meeting on January 14, followed by a decision at cabinet on January 29.
The Friends want people to answer a questionnaire about the pool, how much they use it and its future.
Graham Elliott, district councillor for Beccles North, said: “This is make-or-break time for Beccles open- air swimming pool. The Friends have a vision for the pool that will see it enhanced into a first-class facility for local people and tourists alike. They are willing to take over the management of the pool. If the town backs them then the pool will be saved. If not, the site will be disposed of. There is no Plan B.”
Friends chairman Maureen Saunders said: “We are actively looking for people to help us save the pool. Ideally we need people with IT, legal, engineering, accountancy and building skills to give us a little of their time and expertise.”
The questionnaire is available at www.beccleslido.com, or a paper copy can be requested on 01502 588444. The deadline for completing it is Monday. Anyone who wants to get involved in helping the Friends can call Maureen Saunders on 01502 714911 or email mohyacinthnal @tiscali.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here