Future of Wolverhampton's Tettenhall Pool under threat
The much-loved Tettenhall Pool could be kept shut if plans to create a new outdoor gym at the site are given the green light.
Wolverhampton Council wants to either revamp the popular pool or use cash to install new exercise equipment instead.
But city MP Eleanor Smith has hit out at the council’s plans and is calling on families to help save the Upper Green landmark – that attracts crowds of people in the summer – and make sure their voices are heard during a public consultation.
The Wolverhampton South West MP said: “I am very concerned that the people of Wolverhampton are unaware they are being asked to save this Wolverhampton landmark.
“The pool is a destination for people across the city and beyond. It is a much loved, and much used city resource.
“It is possible that further funds could be raised, but it is important that the council makes plans which reflect the needs of the community and the city, and make the best use of Upper Green for now, and the future.
“I urge people to comment on the council’s consultation site to reflect this view.”
Consultation
The council’s two week-consultation was due to close on Friday but has been extended until January 11.
It wants to use about £180,000, from companies, which have recently built homes in the area, to improve Upper Green and Penk Rise.
Residents are being asked to consider replacing the apparatus and pipework of Tettenhall Pool, or installing the new equipment, alongside a pathway to link the pool and car park to an existing route.
The pool at Tettenhall’s Upper Green closed at the end of the summer season on September 11. But council staff were told the pool’s water treatment and pumping systems are ‘beyond serviceable life expectancy’ and no longer comply with legislation and guidance.
More than 200 people have already responded to the consultation but Ms Smith said more residents need to get involved.
Councillor Steve Evans, cabinet member for city environment, said: “As a council, we have a duty to ensure our open space facilities are safe to use and meet the needs of residents and visitors.
"I strongly encourage residents and visitors to Tettenhall to have their say in our consultation, to help us make the right choice on improving two of our most-loved beauty spots in the city.”
A council spokeswoman said further discussions would need to take place to seek funding to repair and operate the paddling pool if the gym equipment is chosen as the preferred option.
The council is also looking to carry out a complete upgrade of the children’s play area at Penk Rise, with plans to increase its size.
More ‘modern and vibrant’ play equipment would be brought in, as well as facilities so children of all physical abilities could play together.
Existing surfacing and fencing would be replaced, with new colourful rubber safety surfacing under the play equipment.
