Southern Swimming Pool to remain open after DESC U-turn

Department of Education, Sport and Culture confirms it will continue to provide subvention

Government has done a U-turn over the future of the Southern Swimming Pool. 

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture has tonight announced it will provide £434k of financial support to the facility over the next year.

It says a proposal has been presented that would enable the subvention to continue. 

In a statement sent to the Island's media at 5.31pm the DESC confirmed it follows a meeting held last night (18 January) involving the Southern Swimming Pool Board, Southern MHKs and local political representatives.

Local authorities in the south have are considering, or have agreed to, raising the rates in their areas to support the pool. 

You can find out more HERE. 

Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Julie Edge said: “I acknowledge this has been a very difficult period and I would like to recognise the work that has taken place within the community to present a workable plan. 

“I am sure all parties will acknowledge that the Southern Pool is coming to the end of its economic life and we are all looking to minimise the gap between failure of the current facilities and the development of a replacement pool.

"I will be seeking to clarify our future plans for a swimming pool as part of the new Castle Rushen High School development to the House of Keys on Tuesday.

“I remain committed to working with all the regional pool boards and local stakeholders.  

"I hope to meet with the Southern Board in the near future.  

"I will be also seeking clarification from the northern and western swimming pool boards with regards to their respective financial position.”