Lewes Pells Pool: "Surprised and Disappointed" By Government Re-opening Rules

Lewes's outdoor swimming pool, the oldest freshwater lido in the country, can't re-open on 4th July — and managers say the government's specific exclusion of swimming pools is unfair.

On the other hand, they've also considered (but rejected) the idea that Pells Pool could reboot as an outdoor pub or restaurant garden, with a giant-size Covid-19 cleansing facility at its side.

In a letter to friends and supporters, the Pells Pool Community Association chair and manager (Conrad Ryle and Phil Ransley) affirmed:

"We were very surprised and disappointed when we saw the government announcement yesterday on plans for further reopening the UK from 4 July to see that swimming pools were specifically excluded from the plans.

"The guidance that had been generated in recent weeks by both the Royal Life Savings Society (RLSSUK) and Swim England should have allowed for the safe opening of pools, with effective social distancing and health & safety arrangements in place for swimmers and staff.

"And at the Pells we were prepared for this to happen from 4 July, if it had been allowed by government."

The bosses went on to describe what a well-managed lido can offer in terms of safety for swimmers:

"We would have carefully controlled numbers, pre-bought ticketed access only, proper social distancing, cleaning regimes and safe lifeguarding arrangements.  

"In our view, this means we would be a safer and more well managed space than some other facilities that are now being allowed to open."

The pool's chiefs said they had begun collaborating with other similar providers in England to point out that swimming — especially in outdoor pools — should be part of healthy activities for communities.

They claimed such exercise and recreation, carefully monitored for safety, is good for mental and physical health.

In their call to supporters, the Pells Pool chair and manager suggested actions for the public to take:

• Sign the Swim England petition
• Write to our local MP (Maria Caulfield)
• Share your concerns politely on social media

They added that this weekend's "Volunteers' Weekend" activities had been postponed, because the pool is best made ready for opening when a date is confirmed.

But the kiosk remained open for ice-creams and drinks on fine afternoons.

Pells Pool was established in Lewes by public subscription in 1860, then built in 1861. 

The land on which it stands was gifted for perpetual public use in 1603.