As a resident with arthritis, the local Bedwas community swimming pool has been a lifeline for me. It's not just a place for me to exercise; it is also a place where my family and members of our community learn to swim and participate in healthy activities, especially during the school holidays.

The imminent closure of the pool will have significant impacts on our community, including children and the elderly. Without access to this affordable service, children run the risk of missing out on vital swimming lessons. Meanwhile, the elderly could lose a source of regular, low-impact exercise.

In addition, travelling to a pool in Caerphilly is not a feasible alternative. Not only are the buses expensive and unreliable, but as Caerphilly pool is already over-subscribed, adding Bedwas Machen and Trethomas to the mix would exacerbate the situation. Our pool already has a three-month waiting list for lessons which proves the high demand for this service in our community.

We believe this decision by our local authority is hasty and thoughtless. It is vital that decisions to close community resources like our pool should not be taken lightly, and the needs of the residents should be a high priority in these considerations. We urge you to reconsider this decision and save our beloved community swimming pool. Please sign this petition to show your support to keep the Bedwas swimming pool open.