We're getting a new pool!
While it was tough saying goodbye to our much-loved pool, we’re now well into the exciting phase of bringing something even better to life.
Our final swim didn’t quite go to plan (a boiler issue meant a slightly earlier finish than expected!), but Arthur still braved the chilly 18-degree water for one last dip — a moment that gave us all a smile before the doors closed. Since then, our brilliant team have been hard at work clearing the space for the contractors.
What’s happening now?
The transformation is well underway and the progress so far has been fantastic.
Steelwork is now being installed, including steps and handrails
The pool is in the process of being refilled as we move closer to reopening
Pool covers are arriving soon ready for installation
The upgraded plant room is now complete and looking fantastic
New flooring is being laid in shower areas
New doors are being fitted, and painting works continue across the site
It’s amazing to see everything coming together and the space starting to take shape again.
Preparing for reopening
Behind the scenes, we’re getting ready to welcome you back:
Timetable planning is underway to bring you a great range of activities
New Good Boost tablets have been purchased, with staff training going ahead
We’re also thrilled to share that Ben and Arthur have both been promoted to Senior Lifeguards — a huge congratulations to them!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can swimmers still use flippers during their lessons?
Yes, absolutely! Flippers are still welcome in lessons.
With the pool dept at 1.5m, can you still run Aqua Aerobics?
Yes, no problem at all! Aqua Aerobic works really well at this depth - one of our sister centres, Whitchurch Leisure Centre, runs it successfully in a 1.2m pool, so we're confident it'll be just fine.
How will the 1.5m depth impact advanced swimmers?
While the pool won't be suitable for club-level swimming, swimmers beyond primary school age can build stamina, strength and technique through our Learn to Swim lessons (stages 8 - 10) without any issues. There's still plenty of opportunity to progress and grow.
Will you be able to jump or dive into the new pool?
Jumping in? Yes! Diving? That won't be permitted due to the depth - we want to keep everyone safe while still having fun.
When the pool reopens, will you still teach the Rookie Lifeguard Qualification?
We know how important lifesaving skills are. The current Rookie Lifeguard qualification is being replaced by the new National Lifesaving Academy (from September 2026). The great news is that SpArC swimmers will still be able to work towards and achieve up to Bronze Medallion level.
Will you still offer the NPLQ professional lifeguarding qualification?
Yes! The NPLQ will continue to be available for anyone aged 16 and over who wants to take that next step.
Will lifeguard training have to be relocated?
No, all NPLQ courses, training sessions and retakes will continue to run at SpArC Bishops Castle - nice and convenient.
We've heard the pool might be getting shorter - is that true?
Not at all! The pool will remain the same length as before.
Thank you
Our old pool has been the heart of so many memories over the years — from lessons and laughter to personal milestones. While it’s not easy to say goodbye to it as we knew it, we’re incredibly excited about what the future holds.
This transformation has only been possible thanks to the amazing support of our community, with significant fundraising by the SpArC Trust, alongside contributions from Shropshire Council and energy grants. It truly is a project built by and for the community, and something we’re all proud to be part of.
Thank you for your continued patience, kindness and support while this work takes place. We can’t wait to welcome you back to a better, greener and longer-lasting pool very soon — and we’ll keep sharing updates as we get closer to reopening!
We know closures aren’t ideal, but this will mean a better, greener, longer-lasting pool for everyone – and we can’t wait to welcome you back when it’s finished. If you have any questions about the closure, or your membership, please reach out to a member of our team.