THE FUTURE of three public swimming pools has been secured in recent months, ensuring access to community swimming continues across East Sussex.

For the last couple of years East Sussex County Council has been working with Lewes and Wealden District Councils as well as Rye Town Council to safeguard the future of local swimming facilities in Ringmer, Uckfield and Rye.

The reopening of Ringmer Swimming Pool this weekend (June 14) marks the return of a much-loved facility.

The pool is the latest to be secured for the community following the transfer of the lease from the county council to Lewes District Council. Both authorities have worked to support essential infrastructure repairs including investing £100,000 which was saved when the pool was not decommissioned.

Lewes District Council is now responsible for the operation of Ringmer pool with Wave Active running the facility on the district council’s behalf.

Following its closure two years ago due to rising energy costs, the pool at Rye Leisure Centre reopened in April after the county council granted a 20-year lease to Rye Town Council.

The pool is now run by the charitable incorporated organisation Rye Recreation & Wellbeing on behalf of the town council.

Last month the future of swimming in Uckfield was confirmed after the county council agreed a new lease for the town’s Leisure Centre with Wealden District Council until 2042. Freedom Leisure currently operate the centre on behalf of the district council.

140,000 people used the leisure centre facilities including the swimming pool between April and November last year, enjoying the health and welling benefits physical exercise offers.

Councillor Nick Bennett, lead member for resources and climate change at East Sussex County Council, said: “I am delighted that through working with our district and town council colleagues, we have been able to ensure the future of three vital swimming pools in East Sussex.

“The mental and physical health benefits of swimming are well documented, and it is fantastic news for Ringmer, Uckfield and Rye that these pools will be available to their communities for many years to come.”

More information about opening times and swimming sessions at each pool can found online:

Ringmer Pool – www.waveactive.org/locations/lewes-district/ringmer-swimming-pool

Rye Leisure Centre – www.ryeleisurecentre.co.uk

Uckfield Leisure Centre – www.freedom-leisure.co.uk/centres/uckfield-leisure-centre