FURY OVER POOL CLOSURES

Published 1 Jul 2009 17:09

THE closure of two swimming pools in Renfrewshire has sparked anger from residents.

Renfrewshire Council will shut the doors of Johnstone and Elderslie pools as part of their £92 million attempt to regenerate its town centres.

Keen swimmers from both areas will only have access to a £6.3m community sports hub at Johnstone High School after school hours when plans are put in place by 2012.

Labour leader, Councillor Iain McMillan blasted: 'I"ve never seen so much anger from people at a council decision.

'We are all in total disbelief that they would want to close two pools which serve our communities so well.

'The pools are run-down but still perfectly useable.

'In the official report it states that there is a good taxi service to the campus because public transport links are not very frequent.

'A family from Johnstone Castle would have to shell out over £10 just to do one trip.'

The news which was announced at the full council meeting to a packed room last Thursday provoked outcry from the Labour opposition party, which has been supported by the Scottish Socialists.

However, the top swim club in Renfrewshire, Ren96 has this week backed the SNP/LibDem proposals.

John Kerr, Ren96 Chairman said: 'The Ren96 Swim Team welcomes this forward thinking and community-based initiative shown by Renfrewshire Council.

'As a swimming club our aim is to create an environment where we can provide the best possible swimming development program for all of our members in Renfrewshire.

'It is expected that with the 2012 Olympics and the 2014 Commonwealth Games, the greater health awareness and quality of life issues shared within our society today there will be an ever-increasing demand for access to quality sporting and leisure facilities.

'Ren96 believe that proposals for both the refurbishment of existing facilities and the construction of the new facilities at Johnstone High School and the Linwood Community Sports Hub are therefore to be commended.'

Renfrewshire Council Leader Derek Mackay has welcomed the support.

He said: 'We"re broadening access and enhancing facilities.

'Our commitment to sport is being clearly demonstrated with these proposals, and will continue our "Renfrewshire: Gateway to the Games" strategy.

'The £40 million investment in sport and leisure will help our citizens in so many ways, and I am delighted with response from Renfrewshire"s lead swim team.'

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This article appeared in The Gazette 01 Jul 09

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