‘We’re delighted’: Edgeware Pool build about to start

St Albans Pavilion and Pool Inc chair Lynne O’Keefe is thrilled work on the new Edgeware Pool is...
St Albans Pavilion and Pool Inc chair Lynne O’Keefe is thrilled work on the new Edgeware Pool is about to start. PHOTO: GEOFF SLOAN
An almost 20-year-long community campaign to rebuild the Edgeware Pool in Christchurch has paid off.

Contractors will be on-site from Monday, with construction to start soon after.

The area has been without a pool since the demolition of the original pool in 2006, which was built in 1934.

St Albans Pavilion and Pool Inc chair Lynne O’Keefe said to be on the cusp of construction was an achievement in itself.

“It is amazing to get to this point, we’re delighted the project is finally happening after years of fundraising and support from the community.

“This truly is a collaborative project, supported across the community and by local leadership, businesses and generous donors. It is a tribute to the determination and spirit of the people who live in St Albans.”

O’Keefe said work on the pool was expected to take 30 weeks with it opening in time for summer.

“If all goes well and we can get a dry-ish winter, (it will) finish around October/November.”

Contractors will be on the Edgeware Pool site from Monday. PHOTO: GEOFF SLOAN
Contractors will be on the Edgeware Pool site from Monday. PHOTO: GEOFF SLOAN
The group secured resource consent for the rebuild project in 2017 and building consent was granted late last month.

“The previous pool was enthusiastically supported by the local community, and we know that many people are looking forward to its reopening,” O’Keefe said.

“We hope the Edgeware Pool will once again be a hub for community activities. Local schools within walking distance of the pool are keen to use it for swimming lessons and sports events, just as they did in the original pool.

“We’ve also had interest from other groups, including a cold water swimming club who’d want to use the pool during the winter months.”

O’Keefe said the project has been championed by Innes Ward city councillor and deputy mayor Pauline Cotter and former city councillor Mike Davidson.

“At last! Edgeware Pool is coming back. This is a huge milestone for St Albans and a testament to the community’s relentless dedication,” said Cotter.

“I’m so proud to have supported this project over the years, and I can’t wait to see families, schools and keen swimmers diving in once again. Most importantly, local kids will have a place close to home to learn to swim – an essential skill in our water-loving city. A massive thank you to everyone who made this happen.”