We have long been critics of the 25metre tank and teaching puddle solution that makes no one happy. The so-called 'swimming pool consultants' are parachuted in the denigrate the aspirations of the local swimming community wherever a new pool is being considered. They provide 'here today gone tomorrow' councillors with ammunition to approve these ridiculous wastes of money (as most councillors will listen to anyone except the local experts). We are being left with centres that serve those who cannot and may never swim and condemn the community to years of squabbling - but with acres of carparking.

Other London examples would be Mile End pool, Clissold Leisure Centre and Willesden Sports Centre. In two cases carparking was maximised and swimming facilities minimised; as for Clissold where do we start.

The local swimming club is mobilising HERE

"A FORMER Olympic medalist has criticised Harrow Council's future leisure centre plans.

The council is planning to build a 25-metre pool at its new leisure centre, in Christchurch Avenue, and will ignore the outdoor Olympic sized pool on the same site which has fallen into disrepair.

Olympic medalist Sharron Davies said: 'It's a shame, I think it is a step backwards.

'We need more 50-metre pools and it is such a waste when ones that are there are not used.'"

(Via Olympian Criticises Short Pool Plans (from Harrow Times): .)

"A TOP coach believes Harrow's new leisure centre will drive swimmers out of Harrow.

Bill Stokes, chief coach at Harrow and Wealdstone Swimming Club, said: "It seems madness to me, with the Olympics so near, instead of building adequate pools they are being shut down. Harrow Council is the worst offender."

The council has announced plans to build a £36m leisure centre in Christchurch Avenue, Harrow.

The plans include a 25-metre pool, which is significantly shorter than the current 33-and-a-half metre pool.

Mr Stokes believes swimmers will leave the club, which is based at the leisure centre, if the council continues with its plans." [READ THEIR RESPONSE HERE]

(Via Swimmers Will Be Driven Out Of Harrow (from Harrow Times): .)

| London Borough of Harrow | 30 January 2008; 9:55:11 PM |# | | |