£40,000 to repair ageing pool

AN appeal has been launched to raise £40,000 for “essential” refurbishment of Sonning Common swimming pool.

The pool at the village primary school in Wood Lane is almost 50 years old and is one of a few trainer pools left in South Oxfordshire.

It is used by 750 people a week, including pupils at the school and residents.

The pool is managed and operated on a not-for-profit basis by the school and is totally reliant on income from swimming lessons and bookings.

But it has not been refurbished for 20 years and the school says it has “escalating” safety issues which put users at risk.

It says: “The tiles in the pool are cracked and deteriorating and the surrounding flooring is no longer fit for purpose.

“The fixtures, tiles and flooring are outdated and no longer fit for purpose.

“An investment in modern surfaces and fittings will allow us to safely maintain and extend access for vulnerable groups within the community.”

More than £9,000 has been raised so far. This includes £1,000 from the charity Active Oxfordshire and £500 from the Chiltern Edge Community Association.

To maker a donation, visit www.crowdfunder.
co.uk/p/save-your-pool