Possible reprieve for city pool

Speedwell Pool is still under threat

A fight to save a Bristol swimming pool and leisure centre from closure is set to continue.

Bristol City Council's cabinet is to meet to discuss an earlier decision to close Speedwell Pool and Robin Cousins Sports Centre in Shirehampton.

The meeting follows debates at a special call-in sub committee and the city's full council meeting on Tuesday.

An earlier decision to close the pool and centre along with Filwood Pool, was challenged by ward councillors.

North Bristol

Under the council's constitution, a cabinet decision can be 'called in' for further debate and possible review if councillors believe that proper processes, such as public consultation, have not been followed.

The call-in sub-committee supported the call-in and referred the matter to the full council meeting for further discussion.

Tuesday's council meeting then agreed the cabinet should look again at their decision regarding the Speedwell and Robin Cousins facilities.

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.

The cabinet is due to meet on Thursday, 20 October.