THE WATER in Petersfield outdoor pool is warming up nicely in readiness for the first swimmers, says pool manager Deborah Mitchell.
The new boiler, filters and pipework which cost more than £15,000 have been installed and switched on, and the water is slowly heating up ready for the opening on Saturday, April 7.
Deborah said: “The new equipment is amazing, and the water should be at a decent temperature in time for the opening.
“The water is looking fantastic and there’s lots happening in the pool, and out of it this season.”
The pool is open seven days-a-week, from 6.15am during the week, 10.30am Saturdays, and 8am on Sundays, and with an average water temperature of 27 degrees centigrade, early morning swims are popular.
The 25m long pool is a charity run by trustees, and the annual general meeting (AGM) of trustees, members, and pool users, is on Wednesday, March 28, in Petersfield Community Centre of Love Lane.
Deborah said: “Please come along to hear the latest news, financial report and give your views, wine and nibbles will provided.”
At the meeting, pool season tickets will be on offer at a one-off AGM price, an adult season ticket will be £165, instead of £175, a junior one £120 rather than £130, and a family one £450, a saving of £50.
Once again this season, swimming courses and diving lessons using the pool’s springboard will be available, and there will be adult only lane swimming sessions.
There are also plans to change the pool’s status from a charity which relies on ticket sales, donations and fundraising to raise money, to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).
The main benefits of a CIO are that it can conduct business in its own name, and that its members and trustees will not have to contribute in the event of financial loss.
Petersfield town councillor Phillip Humphries is the council’s open air pool representative.
He said: “Work is ongoing to create a new site plan which is required as a precursor to establishing the pool as a CIO.”
He added that the children’s play pool area was being looked at with a view to changing it, as it was no longer suitable for its original purpose.
For more information contact Deborah at the pool on 01730 265143, or visit the pool website at: www.petersfieldpool.org/wordperss