The future of Barry Road swimming pool, which has taught generations of Northamptonshire children to swim has been secured after a contractor to manage the facility has been selected by Northamptonshire County Council.
Northamptonshire based swimming organisation Aqualight will run the pool on the grounds of Barry Primary School in a new 10-year contract.
Barry Primary School has made the decision for the running and maintenance of the pool to be transferred to the county council. It was thought that uncertain costs of maintaining a pool presented too much financial risk to the budget of a single school.
Since then, the council has been working hard to keep the pool open and find a contractor to operate it on a long-term basis.
The pool which dates back to 1903 and has been open for lessons and private hires for decades will see further investment to enhance facilities, adding to the significant maintenance improvements already made by the council.
County council cabinet member for transport, highways and environment, Cllr Ian Morris said: “We’re thrilled to announce Aqualight as the long-term operator of this much-loved and well used swimming pool ensuring it stays open to the local community for many years to come.
“Despite Barry Primary School itself moving out of council control and into management by an Academy trust, we’re still taking overall responsibility of the pool to ensure its long-term future for years to come.
"We know it is treasured by locals and visitors alike, and that it has become an important part of the community. And with new exciting investments into its facilities being explored, the pool has a very bright future ahead.”