Ardee swimming pool calls grow after pop-up success
Councillors push for permanent leisure facility
Calls for a permanent public swimming pool in Ardee have gathered fresh momentum following the success of a temporary pop-up pool that proved hugely popular with the local community.
The issue was raised at Louth County Council’s January meeting, where councillors heard that the short-term facility demonstrated strong and sustained demand for a long-term swimming amenity in the mid-Louth town.
Pop-up pool highlights local demand in Ardee
Cllr Dolores Minogue called on the council to consider commissioning a feasibility study into providing a permanent swimming pool for Ardee. She said the pop-up pool, installed under a Swim Ireland initiative, had been “very successful” and attracted widespread participation from children, families, schools and local residents.
According to Cllr Minogue, the level of engagement clearly showed that Ardee has both the population and interest to support a full-time facility.
Schools forced to travel outside Ardee
Cllr Minogue highlighted the practical challenges currently facing local schools, noting that many are forced to hire buses to transport pupils to Dundalk Swimming Pool for lessons.
“I think there would be significant benefit in terms of public health, water safety and social inclusion,” she told councillors, adding that a local pool would ease pressure on schools while improving access for families and older residents.
Feasibility study seen as first step
The councillor stressed that a feasibility study would be a crucial first step, helping to:
- Assess long-term demand
- Identify suitable locations in or near the town
- Explore potential funding models and partnerships
She also pointed to Carrickmacross, a town of similar size, where a feasibility study for a swimming pool is already underway, suggesting Ardee should be afforded the same consideration.
Long-term project but worth pursuing For Ardee
While acknowledging that the delivery of a new pool would be a long-term project, Cllr Minogue asked whether Louth County Council could commit to examining the proposal within the lifetime of the current council.
Director of Services Joanna Kelly said that the upcoming review of the County Development Plan could provide an opportunity for the proposal to be formally considered.
Concerns over delivery remain
However, Cllr Minogue cautioned that inclusion in a development plan does not automatically lead to delivery. She referenced the long-discussed reopening of Dunleer Railway Station, which remains closed despite being included in the current plan.
Cathaoirleach Cllr Sean Kelly suggested the issue could be progressed further by bringing it forward as a formal motion at the next meeting of Louth County Council.
Growing support in Ardee
With strong community backing and evidence from the successful pop-up pool, pressure is now mounting for Ardee to secure a permanent swimming facility—one that campaigners say would deliver lasting benefits for health, safety and quality of life across mid-Louth.arts, and a powerful reminder of what community in Louth can achieve when women support women. 💪🏻
