Faversham Pools celebrate as they receive confirmation of a successful grant from Valencia
Communities Fund, via the Landfill Communities Fund, towards replacing old pipework.
In 2019, the Pools replaced their boiler following several successful grant applications to Sport England, Swale Borough Council, and again, Valencia Communities Fund. However, connecting a new boiler to the old pipework led to inconsistent water pressures and temperatures. There was also a need to improve water flow through the building for all users and ensure the pool remains a compliant facility in light of financial pressures.
The news of this grant is expected to bring joy to regular swimmers at Faversham Pools, who have been complaining about the cold showers for many years. A petition with 50 signatures and 14 individual letters of support including one from local MP, Helen Whately, were submitted in backing of the application.
Michael Ellsmore, Joint Chair, Faversham Pools said “Since 2019, the Pools have been continuously improving our infrastructure and we are delighted to receive funding from Valencia Communities Fund for a second time to help us achieve this. Not only will replacing the pipework fix our cold showers and ensure the pools remain a safe environment, but it also helps us reduce our carbon footprint, something we are increasingly passionate about. We have a long-term refurbishment plan but without investing in our plant infrastructure and mitigating the risk of total pipe failure our future and long-term stability would be at significant risk. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have supported this project. We still have a considerable way to go to achieve our long-term ambition, but it is reassuring to know we have strong backing from our local community and trusted funding partners who champion the work we are doing behind the scenes.”
Gareth Williams, Operations Manager at Valencia Communities Fund, said “having helped the pools by providing efficient boilers, we were delighted to help again with funding towards delivering hot and cold water effectively to all areas of the pools. This project will help to secure the long-term future of this important community facility.”