Acton Baths To Close in December

Petition and public meeting to protest about plans

Acton Baths in Salisbury Street will close on Sunday 4 December. It is due to re-open in Spring 2014 when it will become part of the regenerated Acton Town Hall complex.

baths

The multi-million pound project includes the provision of a new 25m swimming pool, a teaching pool, a large modern gym, a library, leisure facilities, community spaces and council offices.

The council says it is helping existing members and user groups, such as schools and clubs, to find alternative facilities while the baths are closed. And some of the centre’s activities, such as swimming lessons and fitness classes, will be moved to nearby leisure centres.

While the building work is taking place, alternative swimming pools in Ealing include:
· Gurnell Leisure Centre, Ruislip Road East, Ealing, W13 0AL
· Northolt Leisure Centre, Eastcote Lane North, Northolt, UB5 4AB
· Dormers Wells Leisure Centre, Dormers Wells Lane, Southall, UB1 3HX

Alternative gyms in Ealing include:
· Reynolds Sports Centre, Gunnersbury Lane, Acton, W3 8EY
· Gurnell Leisure Centre, Ruislip Road East, Ealing, W13 0AL
· Northolt Leisure Centre, Eastcote Lane North, Northolt, UB5 4AB
· Greenford Sports Centre, Lady Margaret Road, Southall, UB1 2NP

Councillor Julian Bell, leader of Ealing Council, said: “We are investing millions in this major regeneration project. When complete, it will be a fantastic asset for this part of the borough, providing modern leisure and community facilities for the local community.

“Unfortunately, the baths will have to close for a while, but I hope that people will agree that it was worth the wait when they see the finished result.”

The news of the closure has been met with local disappointment.

Residents have organised a petition in a bid to persuade the council to keep the baths and gym facilities open until planning permission has been approved.

There will be a public meeting to gather and share support for this at the Acton Baths Thursday 6 Oct, 7.30pm.