Athlone Regional Sports Centre has received the second largest allocation nationally of €382,470 from a Department of Tourism and Sport grant to improve access for people with disabilities, improve energy efficiency, and reduce running costs.
Only Leisureland in Salthill and the leisure centre in Youghal, Co Cork received more from the €4.4 million shared amongst 18 pools and leisure centres in 14 local authorities.
“I am thrilled that Minister for State Michael Ring has approved this allocation for a range of purposes depending on the pool, including providing ramps, hoists, widening doorways, or new changing facilities,” Deputy McFadden said.
Her party colleague, Deputy Denis Naughten has also welcomed the allocation of funding, stating that “it will improve accessibility to the pool for people with a disability”.
“The funding will be of benefit to people with mobility difficulties, the elderly and local organisations such as the St. Hilda’s Services,” said Deputy Naughten, who also believed this would boost the town’s growing reputation for sporting and tourism facilities.
“This reputation has been complemented by the recent decision by the Community Games to extend its very successful association with Athlone IT in the hosting of the national finals,” he said.
The grant will help the pool to become more energy efficient, and reduce its carbon footprint.
“Large heating bills are the single biggest cost in running a swimming pool, so by making them more efficient, we are also reducing the burden on taxpayers by cutting back on energy and water requirements,” Deputy McFadden said.
“It’s also welcome that the grants will have a positive effect on employment levels across the country helping to sustain jobs and in some cases create new ones,” Deputy McFadden said.
