Details of rescue package to save Jedburgh Memorial Pool revealed - but councillors warned more is needed
Last updated 29th Aug 2024
The charitable trust which runs Jedburgh Memorial Pool only has around £3,000 left in the bank, while wages of around £20,000 are due to be paid tomorrow (Friday).
That's according to a report being presented to Scottish Borders Council, which is today being asked to approve a rescue package aimed at keeping the leisure centre's doors open, at least until the end of the year.
That includes an immediate payment of £28,784 - the final installment of its annual £115,000 management fee - expected to last Jedburgh Facilities Leisure Trust (JFLT) until the end of March 2025.
But a report, written by the council's Chief Officer for Finance and Procurement Lizzie Turner, states: "If JFLT does not successfully raise funding from private donations and/or the Jedburgh Common Good Fund it is likely the Trust will run out of cash before the December 2024 council meeting."
Last week we revealed the town centre baths - which have served the community for more than 100 years - were on the verge of closing in part due to soaring energy bills and a drop in membership - with overall costs increasing by almost £200,000 in just six years.
More than £6,000 has since been raised in an online crowdfunder in a bid to keep them afloat, while a further £20,000 is being requested from Jedburgh Common Good Fund.
But, with the trust also having debts totalling £58,000, councillors are being warned more will be needed.
The report's author continues: "Officers do not consider the Trust to be financially sustainable in its current form. In order for the Trust to remain a going concern significant changes to the operating model including reduced reliance on one off funding are required.
"A business plan demonstrating the proposed changes and their impacts should be requested by Council before any additional funding is agreed. As part of the report accompanying the plan additional funding may be required to support the Trust for the remainder of the financial year."
The trust had been looking to take on the running of the Town Hall from December, while also expressing an interest in the library building and part of the old Jedburgh Grammar School. But councillors are also being asked to delay any decisions on additional asset transfers "until the financial sustainability of the Trust is determined".
More to follow...
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