We're Getting a New Pool!
We've got some really exciting news to share with you, we're getting a new pool!
From Wednesday 4th February, our swimming pool will be closed for 20 weeks - but it's for a really good reason. We're giving the pool a makeover and bringing you a brand-new pool!
We've officially said goodbye to our much loved pool - and what a journey it's been.
Our final swim did not quite go to plan, but Arthur managed to brace the chilly 18-degree water for one last dip, giving us a final moment to smile about before we closed the doors. The boiler failure meant things wrapped up a little earlier than we expected, but as always, our amazing team jumped straight into action. Equipment has been cleaned and packed away, signage removed and the pool hall and corridor cleared so our contractors can get straight to work.
What's happening now?
The transformation is already well underway.
- Scaffolding is now up inside the pool hall, and fencing has been installed to secure the work area
- The pool has begun draining, at around 2cm per hour over several hours each day - a carefully managed process marking the start of the next exciting chapter for SpArC.
It's a strange site to see the water slowly disappearing, but it also means progress, renewal and a brighter future for everyone who uses our centre,
What's changing?
- A completely new pool floor and lining built to last
- Refurbished plant room plus a new air-source heat pump to stabilise water temperature and make the pool greener and more energy efficient
- Easier access to steps, making swimming more inclusive for everyone
- And don't worry - your favourite mural is staying exactly where it is
This amazing project has been made possible by Sport and Arts in the Community South West Shropshire (SpArC) trust raising significant funds to make this happen, with support from Shropshire Council and energy grants. It's been a real community effort from all of you, and something we’re incredibly proud of.
While the pool is closed, the rest of the centre will remain open as usual. Our gym team is ready to help you mix up your training while the makeover is underway.
If you'd like to continue swimming or keeping your lessons going during the closure, you're welcome to transfer to one of our sister centres, just give our reception team a call on 01588 630243 and the team will happily support you with this.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can swimmers still use flippers during their lessons?
Yes, absolutely! Flippers are still welcome in lessons.
With the pool dept at 1.5m, can you still run Aqua Aerobics?
Yes, no problem at all! Aqua Aerobic works really well at this depth - one of our sister centres, Whitchurch Leisure Centre, runs it successfully in a 1.2m pool, so we're confident it'll be just fine.
How will the 1.5m depth impact advanced swimmers?
While the pool won't be suitable for club-level swimming, swimmers beyond primary school age can build stamina, strength and technique through our Learn to Swim lessons (stages 8 - 10) without any issues. There's still plenty of opportunity to progress and grow.
Will you be able to jump or dive into the new pool?
Jumping in? Yes! Diving? That won't be permitted due to the depth - we want to keep everyone safe while still having fun.
When the pool reopens, will you still teach the Rookie Lifeguard Qualification?
We know how important lifesaving skills are. The current Rookie Lifeguard qualification is being replaced by the new National Lifesaving Academy (from September 2026). The great news is that SpArC swimmers will still be able to work towards and achieve up to Bronze Medallion level.
Will you still offer the NPLQ professional lifeguarding qualification?
Yes! The NPLQ will continue to be available for anyone aged 16 and over who wants to take that next step.
Will lifeguard training have to be relocated?
No, all NPLQ courses, training sessions and retakes will continue to run at SpArC Bishops Castle - nice and convenient.
We've heard the pool might be getting shorter - is that true?
Not at all! The pool will remain the same length as before.
What is happening to my membership?
Swim Lesson and Swim only memberships:
- If you're a paid in full member, you will receive a 18 week extension to your membership, pushing back your renewal date. This will cover from the closure on the 4th February 2026.
- Any direct debit memberships will have a 50% direct debit payment on the 1st February, then the membership will be paused for the duration of the pool closure.
Gym, Swim and Classes memberships:
- If you are a paid in full member, you will receive a 9 week extension to your membership due to the pool being out of action. Don't worry, during this time you won't be missing out on your workout, you'll still be able to use the gym and workout classes as normal.
- If you have a direct debit membership, you'll have a 75% direct debit payment on the 1st February, you will then be charged 50% of your monthly payments for the duration of the pool closure. While the pool is out of action, you'll still be able to use the gym and workout classes as normal.
If you're thinking about stopping your direct debit, please don't cancel it through your bank. Doing that can automatically trigger a cancellation fee, and we'd hate for you to be caught out by that.
If you need to make any changes to your membership please contact a member of our team.
Our old pool has seen laughter, lessons, personal milestones and thousands of lengths over the years. While we say goodbye to the pool as we know it, we're really excited for what's ahead - a fresh space that will serve future generations just as proudly.
We will be sharing lots more updates as the journey continues.
Thank you for your patience, your kindness and ongoing support.
We know closures aren’t ideal, but this will mean a better, greener, longer-lasting pool for everyone – and we can’t wait to welcome you back when it’s finished. If you have any questions about the closure, or your membership, please reach out to a member of our team.