Wanganui East pool: Use it, don't lose it, says councillor - 15/11/2005Wanganui District Councillor Nicki Higgie is challenging the community to increase its use of the Wanganui East pool to ensure it remains open as long as possible.
The outdoor swimming season is about to begin, with the Wanganui East pool due to open on Monday, November 21.
"Members of the Wanganui East Amateur Swimming Club, Council staff and I met recently to share ideas on the future of the pool and to discuss upgrading the facilities for the summers ahead," Cr Higgie, who chairs the Community Development Committee, said.
Voluntary labour has been offered for painting, repairs and maintenance around the pool and buildings. Vandalism has been a serious problem in the past but pool manager Danny Jonas is confident new measures will improve that situation.
"The Council plans to keep the Wanganui East pool open at least until the Splash Centre extension is completed, probably in the next two years," Cr Higgie said.
"Beyond that, no decision has been made with regard to the status of the pool. The extent of the use of the pool by the community will, in my opinion, be the factor that determines Council's decisions as to its future beyond the next two years.
"So my challenge is to the community – to increase the use of the Wanganui East pool; to find ways to ensure its patronage on a regular basis as a community facility. There could be partnerships between community groups and commercial interests with sponsorship opportunities. I'm very happy to facilitate discussion around this, as I would love to see the pool remain open as long as possible for the enjoyment and the wellbeing of the community." | 
