By Joanne Willett, Trustee
The Ward Freman Community Pool Group is a new charity formed in response to the council closing the Ward Freman swimming pool in December 2023.
Our aim is to refurbish and reopen the pool as a community asset, run by the charity so that every penny spent at the pool is reinvested to ensure its future at the heart of a healthy Buntingford.
Whilst we had intended to refurbish everything and reopen with a new dry side layout and social space, we have been unable to secure large grant funding from the Community Ownership Fund and the National Lottery. We are therefore now working on a phased approach.
This includes raising enough funds to replace the original filtration system, repair some broken pool tiles and replace hardened expansion joints. Then we would look to replace plant equipment with new modern energy efficient versions and finally refurbish the changing rooms and create a social cafe space.
How can you help?
East Herts Council have pledged £200,000 if we can match-fund at least £200,000. We are applying for grants, hosting fundraising events, and once the pool is open again, will be able to generate an income.
We are seeking volunteers to help in various roles, so if you could help with grant writing, organise fundraising events, help keep the pool clean or organise swimming lessons and staff rotas please get in touch; jwillett@wardfremanpool.org
Find out more at www.wardfremanpool.org
