Petition and public meeting to protest about plans

Scores of residents gathered at Acton Baths last week (6th October) to demand answers about the future of the leisure centre.

The swimming poool will close on December 4th - three months earlier than expected to allow 'enabling work' but local users of the pool aren't happy.

They say planning permission hasn't yet been granted so the pool should remain open.

Council Leader Julian Bell explained that the work had to carried out alongside the planning process otherwise the reopening could be delayed.

The multi-million pound project includes the provision of a new 25m swimming pool, a teaching pool, a large modern gym, a library, leisure facilities, community spaces and council offices.

The council says it is helping existing members and user groups, such as schools and clubs, to find alternative facilities while the baths are closed. And some of the centre’s activities, such as swimming lessons and fitness classes, will be moved to nearby leisure centres.

While the building work is taking place, alternative swimming pools in Ealing include:
· Gurnell Leisure Centre, Ruislip Road East, Ealing, W13 0AL
· Northolt Leisure Centre, Eastcote Lane North, Northolt, UB5 4AB
· Dormers Wells Leisure Centre, Dormers Wells Lane, Southall, UB1 3HX

Alternative gyms in Ealing include:
· Reynolds Sports Centre, Gunnersbury Lane, Acton, W3 8EY
· Gurnell Leisure Centre, Ruislip Road East, Ealing, W13 0AL
· Northolt Leisure Centre, Eastcote Lane North, Northolt, UB5 4AB
· Greenford Sports Centre, Lady Margaret Road, Southall, UB1 2NP

Councillor Julian Bell, leader of Ealing Council, said: “We are investing millions in this major regeneration project. When complete, it will be a fantastic asset for this part of the borough, providing modern leisure and community facilities for the local community.

“Unfortunately, the baths will have to close for a while, but I hope that people will agree that it was worth the wait when they see the finished result.”

You can follow any developments on the W3 forum

October 10th 2011