Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Levelling-up Funding: Broomhill Pool

17 April 2023 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Tom Hunt Con Ipswich

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Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Tom Hunt raised concerns about levelling-up funding: broomhill pool in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP Tom Hunt emphasized the importance of reopening Broomhill lido, a grade II listed building closed since 1998 due to structural issues.
  • The project requires approximately 7 million, with a shortfall of about 2.5 million, despite significant public support and campaigns by local residents and the Broomhill Pool Trust.
  • Minister Dehenna Davison announced 60 million for public swimming pools in England to address energy costs and support sustainable renovations.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Tom Hunt Con Ipswich

MP Tom Hunt emphasised the importance of reopening Broomhill lido, a heritage asset and grade II listed building in Ipswich. The pool was closed due to structural issues in 1998 but has been campaigned for by local residents and the Broomhill Pool Trust since then. It missed out on funding from the Get Ipswich Active levelling-up bid despite significant public support. The project requires approximately £7 million, with a shortfall of about £2.5 million. Tom Hunt highlighted the lido's potential to improve physical activity levels in Ipswich and its role in reducing social isolation and enhancing mental health. He also noted that neglecting the site would become increasingly costly due to heritage obligations.

Other contributors (1)
  • Daniel Poulter Con Central Suffolk and North Ipswich

    Dr Poulter echoed Tom Hunt's sentiments, emphasising the historical significance of Broomhill lido and its potential impact on community well-being. He acknowledged the financial shortfall due to inflationary pressures post-covid and expressed hope for additional funding from sources like the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Government’s Community Ownership Fund.

Government Response

Dehenna Davison

Minister Dehenna Davison acknowledged the efforts of Tom Hunt and Dr Poulter to revive Broomhill lido, highlighting its historical significance and community importance. She noted the Government’s commitment to levelling-up initiatives and improving health outcomes through physical activity. The Minister announced £60 million for public swimming pools in England to address energy costs and support sustainable renovations. She also mentioned Ipswich's allocation of £25 million from the towns fund, including projects like a new leisure complex and pedestrian/cycle bridge at Ipswich waterfront aimed at enhancing local health and wellbeing. Davison offered to meet with officials to explore funding options for Broomhill lido and expressed willingness to visit the site.

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