A PETITION calling on Clackmannanshire Council to open a leisure centre with a swimming pool as a matter of urgency is nearing 1,000 signatures.
The petition, started by resident Neil Scott, is asking residents for “help in the quest to have a local Clackmannanshire leisure facility with a swimming pool opened as soon as possible for the benefit of all the county residents”.
As previously reported, Alloa’s iconic metal-clad leisure centre closed its doors for good as it was deemed too costly to upgrade and maintain.
Since then, the council has committed to designing and building a wellbeing hub, including a swimming pool, a site for which was recently selected in the west of Alloa.
Plans were in place for a temporary pool at the Marshill car park in Alloa to serve as an interim solution; however, the proposals were recently abandoned over spiralling costs amid a global energy and cost of living crisis.
In the petition, signed by 942 people at the time of writing, Neil said: “Whether the end result is a renovated [Alloa] Leisure Bowl or a brand new leisure centre with a strong level of amenity in a highly accessible location for local people, the local community need this and once provided will be highly relieved and will be able to go about their daily lives in a physically and mentally better way.”
While there is no public pool available in the Wee County, arrangements have been made by the council for residents to attend at Dollar Academy’s swimming pool.
However, it is understood many are seeking opportunities outside of the county, with organisations such as Alloa Swimming Club currently training at Stirling University.
Responding to the petition, Cllr Scott Harrison, spokesperson for sports, leisure and active living, said: “The council is committed to delivering an innovative wellbeing hub, including a 25m swimming pool and a teaching pool, for the people of Clackmannanshire.
“A number of key decisions have been taken including: Selection of the optimal facilities mix option with indicative capital costs of £37.8m. Appointment of key professional advisors. A site chosen at The Pavilions, Alloa.
“We appreciate that the Leisure Bowl played a significant role in the lives of many Clackmannanshire residents.
“However, the new wellbeing hub is a hugely exciting development for Clackmannanshire and will not only offer additional leisure facilities but also provide an inclusive, accessible and inspiring facility that brings people together to improve their health and wellbeing and improves the quality of life for communities across Clackmannanshire.
“The council continues to provide a Learn to Swim programme at Dollar Academy’s pool with over 70 children attending weekly.
“And water confidence sessions are being delivered at Alloa Academy’s hydro pool with over 50 children and young people with additional support needs involved.”
Visit chng.it/HbQgSRc6 for the petition.
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