No pop-up pool for Newbridge

DISCUSSIONS around the allocation of swimming facilities in Newbridge were had at the most recent Kildare-Newbridge MD meeting. At present, no swimming pool is available in Newbridge and no plan for its development.

Cllr Tom McDonnell recently put forward a motion requesting that the council provide a temporary swimming pool for Newbridge, such as a pop-up pool.

In response, the Coordinator of the Kildare Sports Partnership confirmed that the provision of a Swim Ireland pop-up pool is not included in the Kildare County Council/Sports Partnership budget for 2025.

“We need to get a pool in Newbridge,” said cllr McDonnell. “It’s totally unacceptable.” Cllr Chris Pender was in agreement and said: “This is something that is desperately needed.” Cllr McDonnell suggested contacting the Department of Defense to see if the pool at the Curragh Camp might be of use for Newbridge locals.

Cllr Peggy O’Dwyer added that the Department had agreed to give pool access to community groups, but have experiences issues with “human resources.” While the request highlights the need for enhanced swimming facilities in the area, the absence of allocated funding means that the proposal is not currently feasible. Public access to the swimming facilities at the Curragh Camp is an option in progress by the council.