Bournemouth residents are voicing their frustration and concern over the potential closure of the much-loved Redhill paddling pool.
A Change.org e-petition launched by local resident Joss Holbrook has gathered 5,334 signatures, highlighting the community’s overwhelming support for preserving this cherished amenity.
Ms Hollbrook said: “I didn’t want to sit back and just accept it.”
Yet, with the petition closing on January 17, 2025, and no acknowledgment from the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) Council, uncertainty looms over the pool’s future.
Redhill paddling pool has been a family staple for years, drawing thousands of parents and children to Redhill Park each summer.
Ms Hollbrook added: “I totally understand budget pressures and the impact on the council however my concern is the loss of the pool means less people visiting the area and less people spending money in the café and less money spent in the playground.”
Budget cuts have placed the pool on the chopping block, sparking outrage among residents who feel increasingly sidelined by council decisions.
Ms Holbrook’s petition passionately argued: “While the pool is set to open in summer 2024, there’s no secure future for 2025 onwards. We urge the council to reconsider their decision and explore alternative funding solutions.”
BCP Council launched its own e-petition on the same issue.
Despite mirroring Ms Holbrook’s calls for sustainable funding, the council’s petition has failed to gain traction, with zero signatures to date.
This stark contrast has fuelled frustration, with many questioning the council’s lack of engagement with the community-driven petition.
With the petition deadline fast approaching, residents are intensifying their calls for action.
Ms Hollbrook said, “It’s been a community facility for a long time and it’s something that Redhill is known for it would be such a shame if we did lose it as its part of the identity of the area.
“We were already seeing the decline in the area and my concern is when you remove the funding you remove the asset of why people travel there.”
Ms Holbrook and supporters believe solutions are within reach if the council prioritizes community needs.
“The children at Winton primary, Hillview primary and the preschools nearby use the pool. It brings people together.”
As the clock ticks down to January 17, residents remain uncertain about what lies ahead for Redhill paddling pool.
Ms Holbrook’s petition represents a united community determined to protect its shared spaces. Whether BCP Council will take notice and act remains to be seen.
You can sign Joss Holbrook’s petition online before January 17 to show their support and help save Redhill paddling pool.
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