SINK OR SWIM: Will government plans to close the Southern Swimming Pool be successful?

Politicians on the Isle of Man need to take ‘tough decisions’ in order to make ‘massive strategic change’.  That’s from the education, sport and culture minister who will ask Tynwald, in February, to back her department’s plans to close the Southern Swimming Pool by the end of March.  Regional pools – in Castletown, Ramsey and Peel - are funded through local rates, that total around £92,000, and an annual £1.75 million government subvention.  The majority of this is used to cover operating costs and for the northern and western pool buildings loan repayments.  However, budget forecasts for 2024/2025 indicate that an additional £602,000 will be required and the DESC claims there is ‘no scenario’ which would allow the department to increase the subvention.  The DESC says closing the Southern Swimming Pool, due to its age, condition and loan free status, would save around £434,000 a year and allow the other pools to be supported within budget.  Minister Julie Edge spoke to Tessa Hawley about the proposal, the public backlash and the plan for the future: