Lib Dems dive in with Commonwealth Pool cash pledge

Published on Monday 19 February 2007 11:59

LIBERAL Democrats have pledged to guarantee funding for the refurbishment of Edinburgh's Royal Commonwealth Pool.

Scottish Lib Dem leader Nicol Stephen announced the move as part of a package of investment designed to improve facilities, particularly for young people.

He told the party's conference in Aviemore at the weekend: "The Liberal Democrats commit to building two new 50-metre swimming pools - one in Aberdeen and one in Inverness; and we will ensure the major refurbishment of the Royal Commonwealth Pool proceeds without delay."

The pool is due to be revamped as part of the multi-million scheme to sell off the current Meadowbank stadium and build a new sports centre at Sighthill.

Newington Lib Dem councillor Fred Mackintosh said the pool refurbishment would cost 28 million and the new sports centre 48m, but the funding depended on how much the council could get for Meadowbank. He said: "It is really good someone at national level is saying 'This is an important project and we are going to make sure it happens'."

The overhaul of the pool is due to get under way in January 2009, with a completion date pencilled in for the second half of 2010.

The revamped pool could play a major role as a training venue for the London Olympic Games in 2012 and will play a surprise role in the 2014 Commonwealth Games if Glasgow's bid is successful.