Moreton Pool History
In late 1974 a meeting took place in Moretonhampstead to start a discussion about building a new swimming pool. Moreton's old swimming pool, that had existed since 1931, was no longer in use and the community was missing its presence during the summer months. A 30-person committee was formed to take the plan forward and huge fundraising campaign was commenced, with a suitable site eventually found and purchased at the top of Court Street.
In 1981, with a tight budget, the first concrete was laid and when time allowed, construction was progressed by members of our community. They worked tirelessly, to the wire, and the pool opened on 6th June 1982 to much excitement and enthusiasm.
That summer the pool was well-used and the committee learnt quickly how the economics of running a pool worked but their commitment didn’t stop there, as more grants were applied for and permanent changing rooms followed, again built by Moretonians out of work hours. A paddling pool was added to the side of the pool, the depth of the shallow end adjusted and handrails fitted.
Solar panels were first fitted around 1990 and helped bring the water temperature up by 4 degrees on a sunny day - lower than the 27 degrees that is enjoyed now but an important step towards achieving it.
Since 2000 the pool has celebrated its 20th, 30th and 40th anniversaries, with our focus being on sustainability, viability and longevity for future generations. Our projects have included installations of air source heat pumps (supplemented by additional solar thermal panels), a bore hole and solar pv with battery storage.
In recent years the committee has installed a new specialist surround surface, heat retention covers, outside showers, refurbished toilets, changing rooms and reception area. Our aim is to be more energy efficient, save precious resources and ultimately reduce running costs.
The last big ticket item on the list of improvement is a new fibre glass pool lining, for which we are fundraising now and hoping that the work will be carried out in September 2025.
(With thanks to Mike Jeffrey & Jude Denman for the potted history)
Our Ethos
It's simple! To get Moretonhampstead swimming at an affordable price. Whilst running costs have soared over the past few years, we've aimed to keep admission prices down. We also have a Hardship Fund available that helps members of the community to use the pool when finances are stretched.
Our primary school uses the pool twice a week during summer term for swimming lessons, and swimming lessons are available to every age and ability in the community each pool season. We love to see confidence growing in the water!
We are dedicated also to training young members of our community to work at the swimming pool, initially working in the shop aged 15 so they understand how the pool works, increase their confidence and become part of the team. At 16 years, they can progress to being trained as Emergency Responders before becoming NPLQs the following season.
All voluntary trustees, throughout the pool's history, have worked and are working towards the longevity and improved sustainability credentials of our community pool for generations to come. You can read our latest SPSF Environmental Report, with its 91% rating, here.
