Active Ashton, which has two swimming pools and a gym, is due to close early next month due to the rising cost of energy and utility bills. Tameside Council has said it is unable to provide a rescue package, with the Ashton leisure centre one of three Active Tameside (Active Longdendale and Active Etherow) sites to close in September.

The announcement of the closures created a frenzy from the general public with a number of protests being held outside the Active sites. 

A number of politicians reacted to the closure with Ashton’s MP, Angela Rayner commenting, “The news about the closure of Ashton Pool has obviously caused a great deal of upset and it’s clear that this is extremely disappointing for our community. Unfortunately, the huge costs associated with the repair, rescue and rebuild of this run down facility have left Active Tameside and Tameside Council with no other option.”

Hyde and Stalybridge MP, Jonathan Reynolds also said, “This is clearly deeply disappointing news, but I am aware of the incredibly tough financial position Active Tameside are in.The cost of running these facilities, particularly in terms of energy costs, has gone through the roof. There is no further financial support available from central or local government and Active must be sustainable. We do have some fantastic local facilities in my constituency that will remain at the heart of Active’s provision, particularly at Hyde, Copley, Hattersley. and Dukinfield.” 

The Wellfare officer for Ashton Swim Club Barbara Quigley explained the impact of the closure on the swimming team, “The swim club has been going since 1895 and we’ve been based in Ashton. Our club has over 140 members and not all of them can get to Hyde which is where we will have to move to, the timetable has also changed so not everyone can make it.” 

Barbara works in a local school, she mentioned the inconvenience that this will have on local schools, in particular the 16 schools in Ashton, “it’s just going to inconvenience us all and it will affect the children's learning time because we’re having to sort out a whole different schedule.” 

Kerry, who has been attending the pool for 7 years told the Reporter, “I got diagnosed with breast cancer and at that time I felt so lonely but as soon as I walked through the pool’s doors, I felt like I had a whole new family, they helped me every step of the way and they give support to everyone, including my son who has special needs.” 

“Everyone is so patient and kind, swimming is a life skill and I’m anxious about the kids having nowhere to swim which could lead to a rise in deaths because they might end up using local reservoirs instead”. 

Lorraine Whitehead who has been running the campaign continued to reiterate her point about keeping the pool open, “The pool is due to shut on 3rd but it’s not just a pool, it’s a community hub. People with disabilities, mental health problems and all walks of life use it, we’re a real family.” 

“Ashton’s the town with the biggest footfall and the Active site just does so much good, everyone supports and knows each other, it’s a massive shame.”