Disappointment as paddling pool closes

A bid to secure the future of Bewdley paddling pool as part of Wyre Forest District Council’s Localism initiative has ended in disappointment.

Wyre Forest District Council, the Friends of Riverside North Park and Bewdley Town Council had been trying to reach an agreement which would see the pool transfer to the local community.

But legal complications that would have allowed the transfer means that a deal has not been possible, so the pool will close with effect from 1 April, although all three organisations have vowed to continue to work together to bring about alternative features and improvements at the popular riverside park.

Council Leader Councillor Hart, who is also Cabinet Member for Localism, said: “We have worked with numerous local organisations over the last few years to protect non-essential services like paddling pools and retain community facilities.

“Localism is not only about sharing responsibility, but giving local communities greater control over services in their area and the freedom to tailor them to meet local needs.”

“However, despite a lot of goodwill and hard work from all parties concerned, it has not been possible to reach an agreement in this instance.”

Wyre Forest District Council has successfully transferred St George’s paddling pool to Kidderminster Town Council and Stourport paddling pool to Stourport Town Council.

For more information on localism visit www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/localism