Testbourne Swimming Pool in Whitchurch named community asset

Testbourne Swimming Pool in Whitchurch was listed as an ACV after residents collaborated to submit an application to ensure that the community has a say on the pool's future.

This comes after a passionate campaign by residents, demonstrating the community's strong desire to see the beloved pool reopen its doors.

Cllr Chloe Ashfield at the Testbourne Swimming Pool in Whitchurch (Image: Contributed)

Built in 1964 with community funds, the Testbourne pool has fallen into disrepair in recent years due to closure and lack of maintenance.

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A dedicated team under chair Janin Cromarty has been rallying to secure the pool's future, gaining overwhelming support for its potential revival.

More than 100 volunteers have already stepped forward to assist with the pool's revival.

They are hoping to open the pool this summer, but they need to undertake various refurbishments and replacement of equipment and complete renovation of the pool, plant and surrounding area.

Fundraising efforts are also underway to address the necessary repairs and renovations.

Janin said: "Built in 1964 by funds raised by the community, local residents learned to swim there as have their children and grandchildren. While we understand that the lack of financial resources made it impossible for Testbourne Community School to continue to operate the pool, and to open to the public, we wanted to try our best to lease the pool from the school and take it on to make it operational again. 

"The successful registration of an ACV is recognition of the significance of its value to the community, and we are proud that the community has come together to try and save an important and previously very well-used community asset."

The ACV designation grants the community group a crucial right: should the current owners ever wish to sell the pool, the group has the first opportunity to purchase it.

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This invaluable safeguard ensures the pool remains firmly in the hands of those who cherish it most.

Whitchurch ward borough councillor Chloe Ashfield thanked Janin for her hard work in nominating the pool and the BDBC for approving it.

Cllr Ashfield said: "I'm a trustee as well of the swimming pool group. We're very much looking forward to seeing the swimming pool open in 2024 for the community to enjoy again. It's been closed for some years. So it's fantastic news."

The pool's registration comes after popular pub The Kings Arms was also registered as an asset of community value.