THE former Ashton swimming pool on Water Street is set for demolition after plans were approved in 2023.
The decision, which sparked significant public opposition, saw 7,000 people sign a petition in an attempt to save the site.
Originally closed to help sustain other Active Tameside facilities, the building was later transferred back to Tameside Council, which declared it surplus to requirements.
The demolition, expected to cost up to £964,000, is part of wider plans to ‘capitalise’ on the land as part of Ashton town centre’s public realm improvements.
A report to the cabinet’s meeting outlined the condition of the building – and how it would essentially pay for something not being used.
It also revealed how an attempt to get it listed failed.
It stated: “The rateable value is £100,000, which will represent an annual rates payable liability to the council of £51,200. The council will become liable for the payment of the business rates after expiry of the initial three months relief.
“In addition, there will be the costs of management, security and maintenance.
“A condition survey undertaken in 2021 which identified £610,000 of backlog maintenance was required and the building condition has significantly deteriorated since then.
Members and users of Active Ashton told The Correspondent of their horror at the closure of the facility.
However, despite thousands letting their feelings known in a petition, the economic argument weighed heavier.
The report adds: “A petition with 7,000 signatures was lodged, requesting the council to consider keeping the Active Ashton Pool building open. Additionally, there have been numerous other similar correspondence seeking the same.
“The Ashton leisure centre was constructed more than 50 years ago, it is highly inefficient, and with rising energy costs and inflation, was being run at a considerable financial loss to Active Tameside.
“The council is unable to support the petition received to keep Ashton Swimming Pool open as it has insufficient capital to repair and maintain in a safe condition and insufficient revenue to manage the day to day running costs.”