Wem community group dips toe in pool upgrades

The Friends of Wem Pool is looking at ways to improve the town's Swimming and Lifestyle Centre in Bowens Field in a bid to boost membership. The group took over the running of the pool at the start of the year and set up its new management team to run the service.

The pool was discussed at a recent meeting of the Wem Swimming and Lifestyle Centre Liaison Committee, with the viewing area a priority and other projects discussed.

Minutes taken from the meeting said: "It was reported that the committee had agreed that the construction of a viewing area for the swimming pool was a priority project for 2016 as it was anticipated that this would improve income from both swimming lessons, swimming parties and refreshments.

"It was reported that this project could be funded by community shares and crowd funding.

"In addition to the viewing area, a number of lower priority objectives had been agreed including purchase of access steps, purchase of a dosing unit, switching to gas, creation of a gym exercise studio, running events, and creating a window in the reception area to enable customers to see into the pool."

Councillor John Murray, mayor of Wem, added: "It was a very good meeting with very positive news about the pool. The pool seems to be doing extremely well which is vital for the community.

"Of course we always need new members, but the town council is fully behind the pool and we recognise the committee is doing a great job.

"It is hoping to improve facilities next year, which of course will be dependent on funding.

"The town council will be considering grants for the pool, the town hall and other facilities when it meets to agree the precept."

Councillor Murray added: "The more people who use the pool, the more benefit will be to the town."

The Friends of Wem Pool was set up in 2006 when the former North Shropshire District Council decided there was no future in the pool and it would be closed.

The group finally took over the running of the pool when previous bosses Teme Leisure stepped back from management while keeping a team of staff at the centre.

In July it was revealed that about 120 people had joined since the start of the year taking membership to 300 showing a rise of 66 per cent.

Since being taken over by the friends group, the swimming centre has been refurbished which saw walls repainted and floors replaced.

The water pump has also been fixed and now the group has plans to improve the gym as well as access for people with disabilities.

For more information or to volunteer visit www.wemswimmingandlifestylecentre.org.uk or call (01939) 232460.