THE campaign group set up to save Woolston Neighbourhood Hub is calling on Warrington Borough Council to invest climate funding into local swimming pools.
The call follows recent drowning tragedies during the UK’s hot weather, which have renewed calls for greater investment in public swimming pools, lidos and safe outdoor swimming facilities across the country.
As temperatures rise, increasing numbers of people seek places to cool down. However, the closure of many public swimming facilities over recent years has left communities with fewer safe and affordable options, forcing some people to turn to rivers, canals, reservoirs and lakes.
In Warrington, Woolston Hub campaigners say the issue is particularly significant. The town is surrounded by water, including the Manchester Ship Canal, the River Mersey, local canals, lakes and other waterways. While these locations may appear attractive during warm weather, they can pose serious dangers, including cold water shock, hidden currents, underwater hazards and sudden drops in depth.
Laura Bather — Co-Chair, Save Woolston Hub Campaign Group saids: “The recent loss of swimming facilities in Warrington has reduced opportunities for people to enjoy water safely. Swimming pools are far more than leisure amenities; they are important community assets that provide safe environments for recreation, exercise, wellbeing and the development of life-saving swimming skills.
“As climate change brings more frequent and intense heatwaves, the demand for safe places to swim is likely to grow. Yet many communities have seen local pools close due to financial pressures, rising operating costs and a lack of long-term investment. The council should divert some of its climate funding to swimming pools.
“There are increasing calls for councils and government to recognise swimming facilities as essential public infrastructure. Investment in modern pools, outdoor lidos and designated safe swimming areas could help improve public health, reduce pressure on emergency services and provide safer alternatives to unsupervised open-water swimming.
“For communities such as Woolston and Warrington, surrounded by waterways that can be both an asset and a hazard, the need for accessible and affordable swimming provision is particularly important.
“The recent tragedies are a stark reminder that while people will always be drawn to water during hot weather, they need safe places to swim. Investing in swimming facilities today could help save lives tomorrow.”
