Olympic pool petition gathers pace

The Observer told last week how the Bexhill, Hastings and 1066 swimming clubs, which have a combined membership of nearly 1,000 are urging Rother and Hastings councils to consider join forces in the construction of a 50-metre pool which would enable local swimmers to train for country, regional and national competitions.

The clubs argue that this would be a better solution than for the two authorities to pursue separate plans for their own lesser-sized pools.

Detailed reports have been submitted by the clubs to both authorities. Letters have been sent to clubs, organisations and schools seeking their support for the campaign plus doctors' surgeries because of the healthy-living implications.

Now the three clubs have launched a petition seeking public support for the scheme which they are hoping that Observer readers will support.

The clubs put the estimated cost of a joint pool at 14m and say this would offer the authorities a saving over the 7.9m estimated cost of each individual smaller pool.

Click here to download petition form

This petition can be handed in to the Observer offices

The petition reads:

"We the undersigned request that Hastings Borough Council and Rother District Council jointly plan and provide the following for Hastings and Rother residents.

*A wet sports centre comprising an Olympic standard 52-metre swimming pool with a moveable boom and seating capacity for 1,000 spectators. Half of the length of the pool to encompass various depth facility.

*A children's leisure and starter pool with separate pool area to facilitate family entertainment including a drop pool for flumes wave machines etc.

*A multi purpose, dry sports hall with spectator seating for 500 to facilitate Badminton, Trampoline, Hockey, Football and Basketball etc.

*A Martial Arts Dojo with associated teaching space

*A Dance Studio

*A fitness suite equipped with 100 fitness stations, free weight and stretching areas

*A spa with treatment areas, sauna and steam room with associated spaces

*A reception area and administrative offices

*Parking facilities to accommodate all of the above

"We strongly feel that the provision of such a facility will:

*Increase participation.

*Widen Access.

*Improve Health and Wellbeing.

*Create stronger and safer communities.

*Improve Education.

*Improve Performance

*Benefit the economy

Name

Address

Signature