Campaigners secure funding to save Harlech pool

It is hoped the refurbished pool will attract more than just swimmers

Campaigners in Gwynedd have secured financial backing to save their local swimming pool.

Harlech and Ardudwy Leisure was set up to run Harlech pool after Gwynedd council said it could no longer afford to.

The company failed to attract the necessary funding last month, but now has the £300,000 it needed from the Welsh Assembly Government.

The assembly government confirmed the funding.

Harlech and Ardudwy Leisure's plans include refurbishing the cafe at the pool, as well as the changing rooms, and building a climbing wall to attract more users.

They secured a promise of £500,000 capital funding from the Big Lottery, and £300,000 revenue grant from the assembly government.

Last month it failed to win a second assembly government grant, known as community facilities and activities programme (CFAP) funding, worth £300,000.

However, on Thursday, company spokesman Richard Holland said: "We are delighted to have been successful in this new application."

The £300,000 was announced as part of a £2.7m package across Wales to help community and voluntary organisations provide facilities that promote the regeneration of communities.

Local Government Minister, Carl Sargeant, said the funding package would "make a real, tangible difference to community and voluntary groups across Wales".

Gwynedd council leader, Dyfed Edwards, said: "This is fantastic news.

"Harlech residents told us that they wanted to see their swimming pool remaining open and I am delighted that all the hard work and perseverance has finally paid off."