A MOTION to rebuild the popular swimming pool at Glenalbyn in Stillorgan has been passed by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council.
The proposal was put forward by Cllr Richard Humphreys, the Labour Party councillor for the Stillorgan ward.
“The passing by the council of the motion which I drafted, and which two of the other local councillors jointly proposed, is a crucial step towards reopening Glenalbyn pool,
? Cllr Humphreys said.
“The pool closed suddenly late last year due to safety concerns in relation to the state of the roof. Since then there has been understandable local concern as to the long term fate of the facility.
“I am committed to exploring every option to find a sustainable pathway towards reopening this facility in rebuilt and extended form with additional facilities that will support the community.
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A Facebook page set up by a local campaign group,
‘Save Glenalbyn Swimming Pool’, attracted thousands of likes within days.
“While Glenalbyn Pool is old it is one of the busier pools in the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown area and is popular among young and old,
? Grace Costigan, a local Sinn Féin representative said.
“Regular pool users accept the pool must be closed if there are safety concerns but the long term closure of the pool will affect more than just their health.
“It’s more than just swimming, it’s our whole social life, one vibrant elderly lady told me.
“I’m delighted that the sitting councillors for the Stillorgan area have all expressed their concern over the closure of Glenalbyn, as the pool is an essential amenity that promotes both physical health and general well-being through the solid friendships swimmers have formed over many years.
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Ms Costigan added:
“I hope that we can all continue to work together to ensure Glenalbyn is repaired or a redevelopment plan fast tracked to ensure swimmers are not left at sea for any longer than absolutely necessary.
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Cllr Humphreys explained that the County Manager has now been asked to explore funding options in the capital budget for a new build at Glenalbyn, and to report to the March meeting of the council.
“In addition, the council has requested the Manager to pursue the issue of securing sustainable access to the site and to request all interested parties to work towards ensuring sustainable access to the Glenalbyn facility going forward,
? Cllr Humphreys said.
“A rebuilt pool with gym facilities would be a fantastic asset for the people of Stillorgan and the wider county.
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