COUNCILLOR GOING GREAT LENGTHS TO SAVE 'SWIM TORQUAY'

3.29.35pm GMT Thu 17th Jan 2008

The Liberal Democrat Councillor for St. Marychurch, Alan Faulkner, has asked the Council's Overview and Scrutiny Board to put the future of 'Swim Torquay' on the agenda of a future meeting - and it will be discussed at a Pride in the Bay Scrutiny Board in March.

Councillor Faulkner's request follows concerns expressed by a number of local people expressing worries about the future of 'Swim Torquay' should Plainmoor swimming pool be closed. At least two swimming clubs and a scuba club operate out of the pool, and swimming lessons are provided.

Councillor Faulkner said:

"The issue of obesity, particularly in children, is high on the political and media agenda at the moment. Exercise is particularly important in keeping our schoolchildren healthy. 'Swim Torquay' plays a vital role in keeping our local children healthy and getting them interested in exercise. If Plainmoor swimming pool closes it would be a tragedy. I have written to the Council's Overview and Scrutiny Board to ask them to investigate ways of ensuring that 'Swim Torquay' can be kept going.

'Swim Torquay' is also very family orientated. Many children go there with their parents and this is how their interest grows. We must offer the availability of progressing their hobbies and interest to develop their expertise.

The local Community Partnership is also discussing 'Swim Torquay'. However, if any members of the local community have any ideas of how to raise money for the pool, please contact me at the following address: Liberal Democrat Members Room, Torquay Town Hall, Castle Circus, Torquay, TQ1 3DR."