Ben Lake MP and Elin Jones MS express support for community efforts to reopen Cardigan Swimming Pool
Ben Lake MP and Elin Jones MS express support for community efforts to reopen Cardigan Swimming Pool
Ben Lake MP and Elin Jones MS have reaffirmed their strong support for the community group working to reopen Cardigan Swimming Pool, following a recent meeting with representatives of Friends of Cardigan Swimming Pool.
Both praised the commitment and detailed work undertaken by volunteers, and encouraged continued dialogue between the group and Ceredigion County Council to explore a sustainable way forward.
The Cardigan Memorial Pool and Hall, built in 1976/77, has long been a central asset to the town, with generations of children and adults learning to swim there, alongside extensive use by local clubs and community groups for training. Following the trustees’ decision to close the facility in March 2024, Ceredigion County Council’s Cabinet agreed to accept an asset transfer and took ownership in October 2024.
The Council has indicated that while it will not reinstate previous services, it would consider leasing the site to a new charity or organisation presenting a robust and convincing business plan.
Friends of the Pool volunteers outlined the considerable time and expertise already invested in developing business plans, reviewing building condition reports, and engaging with professional advice. They also highlighted the potential for phased repairs and the willingness of local tradespeople and organisations to contribute, should reopening become achievable. Concerns were raised about the ongoing impact of the pool’s closure, with local schools currently travelling to Crymych, Newcastle Emlyn and other neighbouring facilities for swimming lessons.
The group emphasised the historic significance of the Memorial Hall and pool, originally built through public donations, and reiterated their strong desire to see the facility remain in active community use.
Speaking following the meeting, Ben Lake MP said;
“The community group has undertaken significant work to explore how the pool and Memorial Hall could be brought back into operation. From the information shared with us, it appears the condition of the pool and associated plant remains generally positive considering the period of closure.
“While wider plans for a wellbeing hub progress, there is now an opportunity to consider interim or phased approaches to allow parts of the existing facility to reopen. We believe these options should be explored constructively and with urgency. Options such as a lease or phased refurbishment could help rebuild local use and support the long‑term sustainability of the facility and any new wellbeing hub.”
Elin Jones MS emphasised the importance of ensuring that all parties—community volunteers, councillors and officers—have a shared understanding of the options available;
“In speaking with local people, it is clear that there is strong interest in finding a path forward that benefits the community. Continued open communication between councillors, officers and the community group will be essential.
“Cardigan is a growing town with a wide range of needs, and it is understandable that there are complex considerations regarding future facilities. Within that context, it remains important that the case for retaining access to a swimming pool is heard and explored fully. I welcome the community group’s willingness to work alongside the Council and contribute local expertise, trades, and volunteer support.”