A petition was launched following the recommendation of the Department of Education, Sport and Culture (DESC) is that the Southern Pool should close as of March 31, 2024.
Currently the petition has over 2,200 signatures and has an aim of 2,500.
Photo: Chloe Callister
The petition says the facility is a “critical facility in the south of the island, please help us save the pool and show your support in keeping a pool in our community”.
Southern Pool
According to the Isle of Man Government, shutting the Southern Swimming Pool would save the Department of Education, Sport and Culture (DESC) around £434,000 a year.
The Government says that it would also allow it to support the remaining pools within budget.
The regional pools are funded through local rates that total around £92,000 and an annual £1.75m Government subvention.
The majority of which is used to cover operating costs and for the Northern and Western pool buildings and loan repayments.
Budget
In recent years, Treasury has also provided further financial help with increased energy costs.
However, budget forecasts for 2024/25 indicate an additional £602,000 will be required.
The Government claim that no scenario in the report (to be issued on Monday) would allow the DESC to increase the subvention to meet this figure, without impacting on other provision within the Department.
A report on the future of the island’s pools is due to be published today (January 15).
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