Wexford County Council Enabling mobility for all swimmers in 2018

Swimmers of all levels of mobility can now enjoy a splash at Wexford Swimming Pool, following the installation last week of the multi-award winning pool lift, Pool Pod. This is the first PoolPod to be installed in a public swimming pool in the Republic of Ireland.

The ultra-modern facility offers high level of independence for persons with mobility issues, providing them with a simple and dignified method of access to and egress from the Wexford pool. The PoolPod, itself an innovative prototype, was developed around very specific access needs at the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.

The PoolPod is now a permanent facility at Ferrybank pool and it offers swimmers of all ages and all levels of mobility a discrete, safe and east to use option when using the popular swimming pool. Wexford Swimming Pool and Leisure Ltd, who operate the leisure complex on behalf of Wexford County Council, describe the initiative as a response to a drive and commitment to address real issues of providing ease of access to the pool. The PoolPod is not just for people with a disability – it will benefit the whole community and reflects an acknowledgement of the increasing number of swimmers with reduced mobility, a number set to increase in line with an aging population.

     

In supporting the initiative Wexford County Council has sought to respond to suggestions from members of the public and from mobility/disability groups regarding inclusive access at the popular venue.

The entire state-of-the-art leisure complex, located at Ferrybank on the edge of Wexford Town includes a pristine 25m pool and changing rooms together with an ultra-modern and very well equipped gym overlooking Wexford Harbour. The ever-popular facility represents another high quality and affordable amenity provided by Wexford County Council for the people of Wexford. It is managed by highly trained and qualified staff who have earned an excellent reputation for customer care and helping a wide cross-section of all age groups to enjoy healthy recreational activities in a warm and welcoming environment.

While the pool and gym are strongly supported throughout the year and complement very well the highly popular Ferrybank Caravan and Camping Park located next door, new patrons are always welcomed and encouraged to come and enjoy the facilities. See www.wexfordswimmingpool.ie for full details, including promotions, lessons, rates, openin hours etc.