Holywell Mead campaigners hope for decision soon (From Bucks Free Press)

Campaigners pushing for council decision over High Wycombe pool

12:40pm Wednesday 5th August 2009 in Search By Alex Hayes

A CAMPAIGN group looking to save a unique outdoor swimming pool in High Wycombe are hoping a decision on their business plan will be made soon by a council.

The Save Our Swim group, set up after the closure of the Holywell Mead pool in The Rye, say they believe Wycombe District Council is close to making a decision on their business plan.

The group, comprised of former users, presented their proposals to the council leader Lesley Clarke and other top members in June, which would see them take control of the facility.

The pool was closed in February as part of a raft of cost cutting measures by the council.

Their plans included putting a telescopic roof over the pool to make it suitable for use all-year-round, refurbishing the changing rooms and adding an aquatic play area.

Suzanne Grant of Chestnut Avenue, used the pool every year since it opened in 1957.

She said: “It’s such a terrible shame that during the summer holidays the pool has remained closed.

“With the British swimming team doing so well in the World Championships in Rome this week, we would have undoubtedly seen young people using it as success for British athletes in any sport translates to young people becoming interested.”

“We hope the council takes our proposal seriously as we can safeguard this vital venue which will provide an opportunity for leisure, pleasure and fitness at a time when British people face an obesity crisis.”

Catherine Spalton a spokesman for the council confirmed they are still considering the business plan.