Question raised over swimming pool access

A DUNGANNON councillor has expressed concern about the accessibility of the swimming pool at Dungannon leisure centre for those with minor mobility issues.

Speaking at a meeting of Mid Ulster District Council’s development committee last week, Councillor Dominic Molloy said he had been contacted by a number of residents suffering with minor mobility issues who are having problems accessing the pool.

“I have raised this issue with the director of development,” said Cllr Molloy.

“I have been approached by a resident recently regarding access to the pool for elderly and infirm people that do not necessarily need a hoist but could avail of steps within the pool at the shallow end.

“These issues affect old and young alike and might apply to those perhaps suffering or recovering from injury or surgery. Essentially anyone who would not necessarily need to use a mechanical hoist.

“We want our facilities to be fully inclusive and our residents to be active. Swimming is a great benefit to many and hopefully this issue can be resolved swiftly.”

The concerns over the swimming pool come less than two years after a major upgrade to the pool as part of major £2million revamp at Dungannon Leisure Centre, which reopened just weeks before the first Covid lockdown in 2020.

Renovations to the pool included new tiling, pool linings, surrounds,  filters and structural work.