July 18, 2018 2.10 pm This story is over 68 months old

2,000 sign petition for Market Rasen pool

They say Rasen needs a pool more than a second dry leisure facility
There have been a range of problems behind the closures

A petition to replace plans for a “dry leisure” facility with a swimming pool has attracted over 2,000 signatures from residents in Market Rasen.

Plans to build a dry leisure facility by Gainsborough Road were announced by West Lindsey Distrct Council in June, despite the fact the town already has a similar facility with gym, 3G football pitch and sports hall.

West Lindsey District Council has acquired land to build a dry leisure facility in Market Rasen. Photo: West Lindsey District Council

Meanwhile residents are without a swimming pool and, despite 60 years of campaining, are forced to travel eight miles to Wragby for a dip.

With no direct bus routes, residents complain that the journey isn’t suitable for those without a car.

Julie Lambie, who created the Facebook group Market Rasen Swimming Pool, said: “A pool is important in so many ways.

“Young children should always have an option to learn to swim, its a life saver, it’s healthy.

“Although there are pools in Grimsby. Cleethorpes, Wragby and Lincoln, the transport options are quite laughable.

“The population has increased substantially over the years in Rasen and the surrounding villages and it continues to grow but the facilities and activities haven’t

“It’s about time WLDC actually listened to everyone instead of presuming what we want, they after all are our servants.”

Residents in the Market Rasen Swimming Pool group now say they are planning a protest if their demand is not met.

West Lindsey District Council has been contacted but had not replied to enquiries at the time of publication.

Sir Edward Leigh – “Natural swimming pool is the answer”

Gainsborough MP Sir Edward Leigh

Conservative MP for Gainsborough, Sir Edward Leigh, has waded in on the debate and has suggested that an outdoor swimming pool may be the solution.

In a letter to West Lindsey District Council The MP acknowledged the cost of construction, maintenance, and staffing for an indoor pool at Market Rasen’s new leisure centre is significant and suggested an outdoor swimming pool as an alternative.

“There is a strong demand for a swimming pool and this innovative solution has proved successful elsewhere,” Sir Edward said. “At Combloux in France, for example, their natural swimming pool is pure, clear, and free from chemicals. The need for active maintenance in this model is significantly less than a conventional pool as well as being far more environmentally friendly.”

“The new leisure centre is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve the quality and variety of amenities on offer to local residents in Market Rasen,” the MP wrote in his letter. “I hope you will investigate the possibility of building a natural swimming pool to fulfil the strong desire of the community at significant long-term savings.”