Council ‘must communicate clearly with staff and users of Newry swimming pool’

Sinn Féin councillor Aidan Mathers has called on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to “quickly and clearly communicate with the staff and users of Newry Leisure Centre” following confirmation the pool will be closed for six months for repairs.

The Newry City councillor said: “It is absolutely essential that the council moves quickly to make contact with staff and users of Newry swimming pool.

“While we acknowledge that this closure is to allow for essential repairs to hydraulics and pool tiles, this will undoubtedly present real challenges to both staff and users alike.

“Those who rely on the swimming pool for their livelihoods need certainty now, as do those who use the pool, who now face the prospect of a summer season without access to the facility.

“The recent issues around the leisure centre are a concern for many in the town and are creating a a lot of negativity about what could and should be a first class facility for Newry City.

“This should not be the case. The council needs to move quickly to communicate with staff and users impacted by this closure and to ensure that these repairs works are carried out promptly and properly.”