Concerns for paddling pool’s future

VOLUNTEERS have completely refurbished a Valleys paddling pool ahead of its grand re-opening at the weekend – but fear new health and safety rules mean they may not be able to open it again next year.

Abercynon War Memorial Paddling Pool, which has been run by volunteers for the past three years, relies on people giving their time to help run the community site that was left in disrepair for years.

All outdoor pools in Rhondda Cynon Taff (RCT), apart from Ynysybwl, were closed in 2014 when the council made cuts to public services. But Abercynon Pool was re-opened in 2015 when locals clubbed together to bring the much-loved facility back into use.

But the pool’s committee fears they will lose volunteers next year because of new rules requiring them to undergo 16 hours of training.

It would mean some volunteers won’t be able to spare the time to help any more.

Emma Wilkins, 38, who is the committee secretary, said: “Only last month RCT council put new guidelines in place for our volunteers to have 16 hours of training.

“You have to do it to become a pool attendant whereas before it was only a quick course.

“So we’re struggling to get some volunteers because of the commitment.

“We are absolutely desperate for volunteers because most of our volunteers are working throughout the day.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity because you get a qualification as a first responder but obviously it’s short notice for our volunteers and we have seen a few drop out because of that.”

And Emma said if they don’t get anyone to help, this year would have to be the last year the pool would open.

She added: “The last thing we want is for the pool to go into disrepair again.”

However, Emma hopes the pool’s relaunch on Saturday will show just how much the pool is loved by locals – and give it the boost it needs to stay open.

The pool is running a beach party, complete with puppet show, from 1pm to 5pm to celebrate the facility’s 65-year history.

A spokeswoman for RCT council said: “Abercynon is one of a number of community-owned or volunteer-run paddling pools that the council supports.

“As part of the support the council provides to such facilities, assistance and training is provided to meet water safety standards which are applicable to outdoor paddling pools, which are long standing and not new, to ensure these facilities are able to operate safely.”