DEPUTY Jennifer Whitmore has submitted a letter to Wicklow County Council outlining her support for an application for a temporary portable pool for Blessington.
wim Ireland have already applied for planning permission from Wicklow County Council to locate a pop-up pool in Blessington for a four month period, starting from September.
A decision on the application is due by the end of the month, and if it’s successful, the portable pool will also enhance the Community Pool for West Wicklow campaign in their efforts to secure a community pool for the area.
Deputy Whitmore said: “I’m delighted Swim Ireland have progressed with their planning application for a pop-up pool in Blessington. This is a result of the incredible work carried out by the Pool for West Wicklow campaign, something I have been very supportive during my time in politics.
“The provision of a temporary pool in Blessington will bring huge benefits to the area including an opportunity to measure the demand for a swimming pool and recreational facility in the area. Many schools and individuals will now have an opportunity from September, to check out the pop-up pool and get first-hand experience of what it would be like to have a permanent facility in place in future.”
The portable 12 x 4 metre swimming pool will be accommodated in a marquee, with the pool heated to 31 degrees, and the marquee to 27 degrees. It will be located on the site of St Kevin’s Community Hall.
Deputy Whitmore also thinks the portable pool is another step towards the provision of a fully-equipped sports complex in Blessington.
She said: “Such a facility would fill the recreational gap that exists in the area. I have been actively advocating for the need of a fully equipped facility which many other districts in Wicklow currently enjoy. With rising population and many families moving into West Wicklow it’s important that we push forward with something more permanent for the area. This temporary pool will help support that endeavour.
“This is also an important step ahead of the Masterplan for a sports complex in Blessington being designed by Wicklow County Council. I have called on Wicklow County Council to proceed with the public consultation which we have been waiting for since last year, so that residents can have a say on what is the best option when it comes to developing such a site.
“I hope that Wicklow County Council will support Swim Ireland’s planning application in the meantime so residents can look forward to such a fantastic amenity in the area.”
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