Crunch talks planned over future of Jedburgh swimming pool as online crowdfunder raises thousands in just a few days
Last updated 26th Aug 2024
It has served the community for more than a hundred years, and can count an Olympian among its recent customers.
But the trust which runs Laidlaw Memorial Pool and Fitness Centre in Jedburgh has warned it could close permanently as soon as TOMORROW (Tuesday, August 26th), unless it is thrown a financial lifeline.
It comes amid concerns over a drop in membership and rise in costs, with a decision expected to be taken when members meet later this evening.
Almost £5,000 has been raised in an online crowdfunder in less than four days, in a bid to keep its doors open.
But Jedburgh Leisure Facilities Trust has revealed annual energy costs have tripled from £18,000 to more than £54,000 in the past couple of years. That's despite a new boiler and efficiency savings.
Chairman George Burt said: "If we don't get support on Monday, we'll be closing on Tuesday."
Locals say the closure of the pool and gym at Jedburgh would be "a really terrible loss".
Some have blamed a lack of investment and exercise classes, while plans for a proposed facelift had already been scaled back due to “budgetary limitations”.
Scottish Borders Council has confirmed it's looking at what further support may be available.
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Local MP John Lamont described the announcement as "concerning". He said: "I have written to the Chief Executive of Scottish Borders Council asking that urgent support is put in place so the pool can remain open.
"I have also reached out to the Laidlaw Memorial Pool & Fitness Centre team to do what I can to help."
To donate to the appeal - click on the following link - Save the Pool 2024.
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