Hyndburn MP hits out at threat to swimmers (From Blackburn Citizen)

Hyndburn MP hits out at threat to swimmers

4:51pm Friday 15th February 2013 in News

HASLINGDEN and Hyndburn MP Graham Jones has launched a scathing attack on ‘draconian’ cuts which could leave Haslingden without a swimming pool.

With plans for new baths put on hold and with the current swimming pool in a poor state, it is feared that Rossendale could be left without crucial community facilities.

Graham Jones MP said: “With a draconian £3million of council cuts made by central government, Rossendale Council has been left with far less funding for capital projects, funding that would have seen the new build Haslingden swimming pool go ahead.

“The current pool is in a poor state with structural and concrete issues. However, that's not to say that without TLC it cannot continue.”

Mr Jones noted that residents have been writing in about the importance of the baths, and that action must be taken.

“David Cameron has called for the Big Society to step in and provide public services to engage in social good,” the Labour MP said.

“It is clear that this is one plausible option, for as the cuts bite deeper there is a grave risk the old pool will close in the near future.”