Thursday, February 14, 2008

Kirkham Baths Update

The Lytham St Annes Express is currently reporting a "Victory for People Power" after Cllr Simon Renwick voted against the proposal to close the swimming baths. Whilst it is very encouraging to see support from the Medlar with Wesham Ward Fylde Borough Cabinet Member, it must not be overlooked that the motion put to accept the budget, and the resultant closure of the pools, was actually carried.

Further investigations are now to be conducted before the Full Council Meeting (March 3rd) to devise a 'rescue package' to keep Kirkham Baths open. The same unfortunately does not appear to be in place for St Annes Baths.

Cllr Liz Oades, who represents Kirkham and as an independent councillor, says "it is a victory for people power".
Cllr Renwick, despite not being at the Kirkham Public Meeting, has clearly been made aware of the overwhelming response from the public to keep the baths open.
For there to be a truely "People Power" success, it is now essential that the Full Council agree to not closing Kirkham Baths. Be aware though that, at the moment, the Cabinet have actually recommended closure, despite Cllr Renwick's protestations, which unless it is overturned on March 3rd will be the end result!

The fight must continue to influence as many Fylde Borough Councillors as possible to take the same tack as Cllr Renwick.

A march to protest about the proposed closure of both the St Annes and Kirkham pools will take place on Saturday, March 1st in St Annes from 11am.

The public must not be lulled into a false sense of security by hearing that one member of the cabinet voted against the proposal to close the baths when the remainder of the Cabinet did so!

March 3rd is the critical date for the final decision.

Click here to read the Lytham St Annes Express Report

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