THE possibility of a swimming pool for the borough was discussed way back when in 1959.
Public opinion supported the view following the tragic death of a young man in the week of July 3.
Many of those who were once opposed to the idea, rejoined the majority of ratepayers at the time in support of the pool plan.
Many of the ratepay
ers believed that a pool was desirable, although they felt at the time it should not be too elaborate.
An important point raised by the people was whether or not the pool would have been open at the weekends, when most people of the town could take advantage of it.
It was believed that unless it was, there would be no point in opening it as it would not serve the purpose it was intended for.
However, councillors would class the pool as a public amenity and therefore mean it would not have been open on Sundays, in accordance to the park by-laws, made in 1909 that stated, “no person shall play at football, cricket, lawn tennis, lacrosse, croquet, bowls, quiots or any other sport in any part of the park on any Sunday.”
The possible cost for the indoor baths was estimated at £60,000, of which 69 per cent would have been covered by a grant given by the Ministry of Education.
That left £21,000 to be paid by ratepayers. This would have, at the time, meant, including additional costs and receipts would add seven pence in the pound on rates at that time.
The full article contains 262 words and appears in Lurgan Mail newspaper.
