QUICK FACTS
What is Gayton Pool? This is a building housing a swimming pool, changing rooms and a community centre.
Where is it? In the grounds of Gayton Junior School on Gayton Avenue in Littleover, Derby.
What is the pools history? The building of the community centre started in 1974 and later on the changing rooms and pool were built. The community centre, changing rooms and swimming pool were officially opened in 1978.
Why did Derby City Council close the pool? In July 2007 Derby City Council closed the swimming pool and changing rooms for health and safety reasons, after completing two surveys on the structures, deeming them unsafe. However, the community centre stayed open after completing some refurbishment.
Who loses out now the pool has closed? Around 900 people used Gayton Swimming Pool every week when it was open, including children from 6 different schools in the area, an OAP group, the Autistic Society, Little Ducklings baby/toddler group and young swimmers who had private lessons there.
How does the BCAG know the pool can be saved? The BCAG believes that the buildings can be repaired/refurbished for a fraction of the cost the council is estimating and we feel the buildings are not beyond repair. The Community Association who run the community centre side of the building have a clause in their lease which says that the council should keep the buildings in good repair. This is to be the foundation of the court case that is set for December 2007. The Community Association is taking Derby City Council to court and have been advised that there is a very good chance they can win.
What examples of repairs do the BCAG suggest to show that it can be repaired at a reasonable cost? The BCAG have done extensive research into costings for the repair of the changing rooms and pool area. We have consulted several specialists in such structural engineering and have been advised by them all that this repair work will cost no more than £180,000, and the life span of such work will be upwards of 15-20 years. We feel this is a small investment for the council to make in the future of our children and their ability to learn to swim.
What happens now that the Court has ruled in favour of the Community Association and the Council will have to pay for and complete repairs to the building? We want to work with the Lib Dems (who now run the Council) and get the work done to the pool and buildings as soon as possible. We will strive to make sure this work is completed properly so that our children can once again benefit from this invaluable facility that we love!
