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Save Leventhorpe Swimming Pool: Sawbridgeworth Town Council calls on community to back campaign




Sawbridgeworth town councillors have united across party lines to save Leventhorpe swimming pool and gym.

Members of the 12-strong council, which is controlled by Conservatives, have launched a petition calling on the Government to restore a vital grant and keep the “valued community facility” open.

For decades the pool has operated under a long-standing agreement between Leventhorpe School and East Herts Council. This requires the Cambridge Road secondary to cover 40% of maintenance costs while the district authority funds the remaining 60%.

Leventhorpe School
Leventhorpe School

With the withdrawal of Government support earlier in the year, the school is unable to sustain its share without redirecting critical educational resources, which is unsustainable. Head Malcolm White has confirmed the facilities will close on December 22.

Councillors Eric Buckmaster, Ruth Buckmaster, Annelise Furnace, Dawn Newell, Salvatore Pagdades, Angus Parsad-Wyatt, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt, Simon Penney, Greg Rattey, John Rider, mayor Reece Smith and Steve Smith are calling on the Government to “reconsider these funding cuts and provide the financial support necessary to keep Leventhorpe Swimming Pool open for our community”.

Cllr Eric Buckmaster (Con) explained: “Leventhorpe swimming pool is more than just a recreational facility, it’s a lifeline for Sawbridgeworth residents. Without Government funding, we risk losing an irreplaceable community asset that supports the physical and mental wellbeing of residents of all ages. We are urging the Government to act now to keep this facility open.”

The pool and gym off Cambridge Road
The pool and gym off Cambridge Road

Cllr Steve Smith (Labour) said: “This pool has brought our community together for years, fostering friendships, fitness and family memories. We are united in our commitment to saving this facility and urge the Government to restore funding for Leventhorpe pool.”

Cllr Furnace (Lib Dem) added: “The cross-party support behind this petition highlights how much this pool means to our community. It’s a cherished local hub, and we are calling on everyone to join us in urging the Government to keep it open for future generations.”

Cllr Rattey (Independent) also voiced his support, saying: “Leventhorpe pool has served residents across all walks of life, from schoolchildren learning to swim to older adults staying active. It’s time for our entire community to come together to preserve what is truly a community cornerstone.”

The petition, now live on Change.org, has already generated significant support, demonstrating the community’s commitment to keeping the Leventhorpe pool open.



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