Demonstration Held Over Closure of Two Swimming Pools

A demonstration took place concerning proposals to close two swimming pools located at a leisure facility in East Sussex. Approximately 50 individuals participated in the protest on Monday evening, which addressed the impending closure of two out of three pools at Eastbourne’s Sovereign Centre, according to protester Sarah Turner. “We had a lot of kids who were so enthusiastic about it because they are so passionate about the centre,” she stated. Eastbourne Borough Council indicated that the choice was made as a result of escalating expenses. The council noted that the facility, established in 1977, had experienced a substantial rise in its operational expenditures, particularly in areas such as staffing, heating, and chemicals. The council previously voted in November to close the pools as a measure to conserve funds. This decision was subsequently sent to the scrutiny committee, and alternative proposals were presented during a meeting held on Monday evening. Nevertheless, the Fun Pool within the complex is already no longer operational. Ms Turner expressed her belief that the “devastating” decision had already been finalized without adequate public input. “The support to keep the Sovereign Centre is very, very strong within the community. But I don’t feel like we’re being heard enough,” she informed BBC Radio Sussex. She added, “It feels like the decision has been pushed ahead without actually communicating it and giving anyone a chance to look for real alternatives.” Concurrently, Jan Bruce, a physiotherapist who utilizes the pools for aqua physiotherapy sessions, stated that no other location in Eastbourne would allow her to conduct her practice. “I see up to 24 patients a week. Where are these patients going to get that extra help now?” she questioned. Stephen Holt, the council leader, described the closures as “very difficult decisions”. He elaborated, “Without making significant savings, the council would be at risk of being unable to set a balanced budget and the potential complete closure of all discretionary services, including the entire Sovereign Centre, as a result of central government inaction.”