10:53am Thursday 26th January 2012
THIS week marks the beginning of a new era in the history and development of Tyldesley Baths with the announcement that from April 1 the pool will be known as the Pelican Centre.
Its Board has agreed to take on the 25 year lease to run the pool for the foreseeable future.
Trevor Barton MBE, chairman of the board, said: "It has taken 12 months of negotiation with our supportive local authority to reach this stage, the next part is where the hard work in recruitment, finance etc. begins and also where the public can take centre stage in contributing to our start up fund as well as volunteering and getting behind Mavis Bent MBE in giving Tyldesley Swimming and Water Polo club a secure future.
"We have a fabulous bunch of people on the Board and in the support group. I see no reason why we cannot run the pool as a model of efficiency and develop the next door facilities over time to fulfil the community’s needs, particularly from a health and well-being point of view.
"We are receiving terriffic help from our CVS colleagues in ensuring that we are doing things properly: we are indebted to colleagues from Linder Myers' in Manchester in providing much need legal expertise and Jan Garrett and the staff at Fred Longworth high school for their help and support.
"Rotary Clubs in our area are also getting behind our scheme and if other local groups want briefing about our proposals you have only to ask. Our President Andy Burnham MP, will be keeping colleagues and locally elected members in the loop as well.
"Any parents thinking of enrolling their children on the Learn to Swim programme now have certainty that the lessons will be delivered to a high standard at their local pool. We are in easy reach of the Atherton, Hindsford, Tydlesley, Mosley Common and Astley areas. Local schools will be contacted in the near future to map out their requirement too. If you want to ask questions or pledge support, we will see you at the public meeting to be held at Tydlesley rugby union club which starts at 6:30pm for 7pm on Tuesday, February 21.
MP Andy Burnham MP said: "I am absolutely delighted that the Pelican centre is on the brink of becoming a reality. This has come about because a number of local people were determined to keep the pool open for the community.
"I hope all the residents of Tydlesley and beyond will enjoy using the Pelican centre and its enhanced facilities, and bring their family and friends, offering to volunteer and ensuring that it will be another beating heart in the community. Well done to all concerned."
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