In March 1996 the Lewisham Council took a decision to close Forest Hill Pools but, following a very strong local campaign, in June 1996 the decision was overturned.
Once again the future of the Pools is being considered. As I understand it the council is offering two options (one wonders why only two are being offered?) - one for a refurbishment with a life span of 10 years, the other is for a demolition and rebuild with one pool and extended dry facilities (with a life span of 60 years). The cost of each option is £4.1m.
"Consultation" is supposed to have started although no-one seems to have seen a consultation form - there certainly weren't any available when I called in to the Pools yesterday - not because they have all been snapped up by pool users - simply none have been delivered. And yet a "decision" is due at the end of November.
There is a meeting (not very well publicised) to be chaired by the Mayor, Steve Bullock, on Wednesday evening at Sydenham Girls School at 7.30 pm to discuss the options. This is open to all who are interested in the future of the Pools - which should be a large majority of the local community, especially those with school age children.
With problems occurring with Downham and Ladywell Leisure Centres any decision about the future of Forest Hill Pools deserves strong scrutiny.
I would urge anyone who has an interest in these 120 year old pools (the oldest in London) to come to Wednesday evening's meeting