30 July 2003

POOL PLAN GETS WARM WELCOME

SWIMMING groups have welcomed plans to build a new state-of-the-art swimming pool in South Tyneside.

Chiefs at South Tyneside Council are currently working on plans to build a new 25-metre pool in Boldon Colliery. The council is formulating plans to put to the Government after being selected as one of only five local authorities around the country to bid for a share of £39m.
Ken Nesworthy, head coach of South Tyneside Swimming Club, said it was excellent news as the borough was crying out for new facilities.
"We are currently training in Washington. We had to make the move to find more water time. The pool we are using at the moment could close."
Apart from a proposed new pool there are also plans for a 250-seat theatre, both facilities would be located next to the proposed new Boldon School which is expected to be completed in 2005.
The scheme, which is called Boldon Colliery Community Theatre and Swimming Pool, would be one of just five flagship culture and leisure projects in the country and South Tyneside Council will be trying to get a £2.86m share of the money which is up for grabs.
Councillor Ron Reynolds, who represents the Westoe ward and has responsibility for lifelong learning and leisure, said: "It is good news that South Tyneside has been selected to be one of five areas to apply for this money. This is something which could benefit the whole community."