A campaign has been launched to save the Oasis Leisure Centre in Swindon which will not reopen after lockdown restrictions end on December 2.
The iconic pool – with its wave machine and slides – had been looking a bit faded in recent years.
But it had a loyal following with families in Gloucestershire, who crossed the border into Wiltshire for some water-based fun.
The impact of the pandemic meant operators were unable to make it financial viable and the decision was taken to close it.
Operators GLL will return their lease of the 44-year-old centre to landlord Seven Capital.
And this is where people behind a petition to save the pool, the inspiration for rock band Oasis’ name, have stepped in.
They say: “We call on Seven Capital to find a new operator to replace GLL as soon as it is possible to keep the Oasis in use, and to come up with a long term plan that will see a refurbishment of the Iconic and well loved Oasis before the end of the year.”
Already more than 700 people have signed the petition with a target of 1,000 people.
(Image: Unknown/Zak Hussein/PA Wire)
In a Facebook post, operators said on Thursday: “It is with great regret and following a review with our landlord Seven Capital, we have taken the difficult decision to surrender the lease for the Oasis Leisure Centre.
“This means it will not re-open when lockdown restrictions end in early December.
“We will be in touch with our members and other users of the facility in the coming days to discuss the options available to them.”
The post provoked sadness, with one person writing: “Hopefully the Oasis can be saved because its unacceptable to be closing down for a town of our size.
“Went twice recently after the first lockdown. They put a new roof in and new changing area and showers and it was nice.”
Another person added: “This is so upsetting. There will soon be no pools left for our children. I used Oasis every week after first lockdown lifted, with my 6 month old baby. I would like to say how brilliant all the staff were, how welcoming they were, how clean the facilities were.
“I’m just so sorry it’s wasn’t busy enough and covid capped capacity. I wish all staff members the best, I’m so sorry this has happened.
“Swimming was a massive part of my childhood, I worry for the next generation losing out.”
Before the second England lockdown, the pool had reopened with people to pre-book for hour-long slots in the pool.
You can view and sign the petition here
