To: North Lanarkshire Council

As a resident of North Lanarkshire, I am deeply concerned about the potential closure of Kilsyth swimming pool. This vital resource has become an integral part of our local community, providing essential health and wellbeing benefits to countless individuals. I implore you to reconsider this decision and preserve this invaluable facility.

Personal Story:
My name is Lesley Taggart and I write this petition as someone who has directly benefited from the services offered by Kilsyth swimming pool. Over a year ago, I was diagnosed with arthritis in my spine and neck, which greatly impacted my mobility and overall quality of life. As a result, I now work from home to accommodate my condition.

Swimming at Kilsyth pool during my lunch breaks has been an absolute game-changer for me. Despite struggling to walk long distances due to chronic pain, swimming has proven to be an effective form of exercise that allows me to maintain some level of mobility without exacerbating my condition further.

The closure of Kilsyth swimming pool would be devastating not only for me but also for many others in our community who rely on it as their primary means of staying fit and improving their health. It serves as a lifeline for individuals with various medical conditions or physical limitations that prevent them from engaging in other forms of exercise.

Relevant Facts:
1) According to the World Health Organization (WHO), swimming is considered one of the best forms of exercise due to its low impact on joints while providing excellent cardiovascular benefits.
2) The Arthritis Foundation states that regular aquatic exercises like swimming can help reduce joint pain, improve flexibility, increase muscle strength, and enhance overall mental well-being.
3) A study conducted by the University College London found that access to local leisure facilities significantly contributes to improved public health outcomes within communities.

Closing Kilsyth swimming pool would not only deprive individuals like myself of a crucial resource but also hinder the overall health and wellbeing of our community. We cannot underestimate the positive impact this facility has on our physical and mental health, especially during these challenging times.

I urge you, North Lanarkshire Council, to listen to the voices of your constituents and recognize the immense value that Kilsyth swimming pool brings to our community. Please reconsider your decision to close this vital resource and explore alternative solutions that ensure its continued operation for generations to come.

Together, let us preserve this lifeline for our community!

Lesley Taggart