Thousands sign petition to get open air swimming pool back in Daventry and back on the map

Our library picture of former campaigner BIll Spencer with local children at the pool.

Campaign organiser Jan Boneham wants the pool rebuilt in Daventry after it was closed by Daventry District Council in 2006 because of the £70,000 a year it cost to run.

So far, the petitiion has been signed by more than 2,500 people who want to see the attraction back in the town.

It was built in Chaucer Way in 1962 after five children drowned while swimming in Drayton Reservoir.

Jan, founder member and chairman of Daventry Outdoor Pool Committee (DOPC) said: "The current site and an eye sore and a tough reminder to us all of the iconic pool and the memorable times we had there.

They want to see floating cinema evenings, a sauna and steam room and an annual swimming gala, ice skating rink and markets at Christmas.

"We believe that the original pool, built and payed for by local people, through fundraising and hands-on preparation building work, belonged to the people of the town and district."

Organisers of the campaign want to turn it into a multi-purpose facility with an all-weather pool, wave machine and a cafe.

Project manager Kellie Hodgett, who is a mother and grandmother, said the pool should never have been demolished.

"I believe the Daventry people paid and built this," she said,

"It should never have been removed. Young people are really missing out on this wonderful facility, so we are urging more people to sign the petition."

"If anyone wants to sign the petition who isn’t online they can come to my stall on Daventry Market, Save with Ken and Kellie on Tuesdays and Fridays."

Campaign supporter Kelly Hodgett at a swimming gala in Daventry in 1980.

Helen Connell also supports the campaign.

She said: "It should never have been demolished.

"Daventry residents - including my parents - contributed to it being built, and petitioned against it being closed. It should have been revamped to be used all year around."

To sign the petition, visit /www.change.org/p/daventry-district-council-rebuild-daventry-outdoor-pool

It will be submitted to the newly-formed West Northamptonshire Council, who declined to comment at this stage.