Pool re-opening will take my breath away (From Bucks Free Press)

Holywell Mead

6:36pm Thursday 26th May 2011 in Opinion

SO after two years of fighting, campaigning and making a general nuisance of themselves to all the right people, the Holywell Mead pool supporters can feel justly pleased with themselves today.

The pool has reopened and its future seems bright if Fusion – the charity organisation taking over the reins – prove to be as successful here as they have in Uxbridge.

And while I promised myself I would go for a quick dip if and when the pool ever reopened, I must admit I have been given a moment’s pause by news it won’t be heated.

I know Holywell Mead first opened in 1957, and I am all for honouring our past and keeping our historic buildings intact, but really? No heating?

The blitz of sunshine we have enjoyed in April and May notwithstanding, haven’t they heard about our Arctic summers?

We’re not in Scandinavia, after all, where they love paddling among the icebergs.

So while I heartily congratulate all those who battled to reopen the pool, and credit Wycombe District Council for having the sense to realise how unpopular its cash-saving move was in 2009, I might just hold on for some guaranteed scorching weather before I take my inaugural dip in the pool.

But if the heating they are hoping to install does come about, I will be a regular, I promise.