Medway Liberal Democrats welcome the new plans for Splashes
Medway Liberal Democrats are happy to see the future plans for new swimming facility that will replace Splashes in Rainham has been released. This is the first time the public would have been able to see them and also an ideal opportunity for them comment and make changes.
After looking over the plans, the Medway Liberal Democrats are overall happy with them as a first draft. Considering the constraints placed on the project by the size of the site and the financial limitations Medway Council has right now, they do deliver a facility that meets the basic needs of the local community. There is both a family pool and lanes for swimming. There is a multi function room and a gym. However, due to the size of the site, these are all relatively small.
There are also some minor changes we would like to see to the plans. We feel there is an opportunity being missed in that the cafe doesn't open out to the Cozenton Park side of the building. This would give refreshment and toilet facilities to the regular park users, therefore encouraging more people to use the wonderful green space. We would also like to see extra CCTV provision placed in the carpark and the nearby skate park, as these are known hotspots for antisocial behaviour.
We urge all Medway residents to send their own comments to Medway Council during this planning process. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to get this facility right, so we need all the input from residents to make sure we do. You can make comments on the council's planning portal here:
Stuart Bourne, local resident and spokesperson for Medway Liberal Democrats said, 'This is a very good start for the plans for the new Splashes. I like what I'm seeing, but I do feel that there are tweaks that will make it perfect. I will be sending my comments, and I would ask everyone else to do the same. We have one chance to get this right if we want the perfect facility we deserve.'
Medway Liberal Democrats also hope Medway Council will publicise more details on the current cost estimates for the project, as well as an up to date schedule for the build. Given the council's recent history of projects overspending and over running, it's important the public can ensure we are getting value for money on this project.
ENDS