Following a period of consultation with affected swimming clubs and independent providers, the pool relocation proposals planned for October have now been paused.
The proposals were developed to make better use of the pool capacity available across West Lothian and create additional opportunities for public swimming and swimming lessons within the school pools. At the same time, they aimed to support the long-term sustainability of swimming provision while continuing to work alongside clubs, independent providers and specialist programmes.
Having listened carefully to the feedback and additional information provided through the consultation, we have decided not to proceed with the current relocation proposals planned for October. Providers have raised concerns about the potential operational and commercial impact of the proposed changes, including the future viability of some services. This was never an intended outcome, and no provider will be required to relocate under the current proposals.
We will continue individual discussions with providers who wish to explore alternative arrangements that could work for their organisation. Where there is an appetite to progress a change, we will work with them to consider the options available.
The proposals were not about replacing independent providers with Xcite swimming lessons. We recognise the important contribution these organisations make to swimming provision locally, while also recognising that there remains significant pool capacity across West Lothian that could be used more effectively.
We will continue to work collaboratively with Scottish Swimming-affiliated clubs and independent providers to explore alternative ways forward that increase participation, make best use of the facilities we manage and support sustainable swimming provision across West Lothian.
