Pool decisions face new challenge

Speedwell Pool may be forced to close

A decision to close two Bristol swimming pools and a sports centre is due to be challenged on Tuesday.

Bristol City Council's cabinet voted unanimously last week to close Speedwell and Filwood pools and the Robin Cousins Sports Centre.

That decision is expected to be challenged by ward councillors campaigning to keep them open.

A cross party committee will then recommend whether the cabinet should look again at its decision.

The planned closure of the pools and sports centre form part of the city council's long-term strategy to deliver "an improved, modernised service for residents which includes disabled access".

The council has already closed Henbury and Shirehampton pools, replacing them with the new Henbury pool.

A new pool at Horfield is due to open in November replacing North Bristol pool in Bishopston.

The council has earmarked the Robin Cousins Sports Centre for closure saying it fails to attract enough visitors to make it financially viable.