Letter: Council cash woe for swimming pool
Sometimes recently one could be forgiven for thinking that this country is turning into a third world state. We are told that we cannot afford this or that, whether it be libraries, or the health service.
In an astonishing show of short-sightedness, Shropshire Council now propose to withdraw financial support from Church Stretton Swimming Pool. If this happens it will close.
It is perhaps worth briefly relating the history of this pool.
It was opened in 1971 after a public appeal raised £19,000 for its construction.
It is well used but like all public pools it requires a subsidy to keep running.
It has enabled successive generations of children to learn to swim thereby introducing them to an accessible and healthy form of exercise and reducing the risk of accidents. It is used by local residents and holiday makers. It is a valuable resource for those of limited mobility or suffering from joint or muscle problems.
In 2010 a sports hall was added to the complex after another major public appeal.
A League of Friends gave support and continues to do so.
There is a meeting of the advisory committee at Church Stretton Sports and Leisure Centre tomorrow, Wednesday, at 7pm.
It would be good if this committee were made aware of the views of the public in this matter.
Charles West, Church Stretton
