The Raich Carter is the only sports centre in Sunderland which has not reopened the swimming pool.

Many people have been visiting the centre for 20+ plus years and are saddened that they can't visit their regular sports centre and use the pool. It's fun for all the family, a way for them to get out and get some exercise together, it's good for mental health. Children are missing out because there aren't any other day to day activities they can take part in. Some people rely on the pool for exercise, they may have a disability and need the water to help them move around.

The Raich Carter is a fabulous part of the community and it is not fair that locals need to travel elsewhere to have use of a pool. I am a regular visitor of the centre and it is a shame to see the pool just sat there, still full, still in working order, with the doors closed to the public. The poor staff are dealing with complaints and questions on a regular basis, from customers who are upset and asking why they can't use the pool, which the staff do not know the answer to! Considering use of the pool is included in the memberships, it's no wonder people have something to say.

There are also a few rumours going around that there are no plans to reopen the pool, whether it be in the near future or years ahead, some have heard that the pool will be closing down permanently. I certainly hope that these rumours are not true!

I wanted to start this petition as I know there will be many people with the same thoughts, who will want to find out what is going on. So if this helps to get the pool open, then that would be fantastic! But, just letting us know the future plans for the swimming pool at Raich Carter.. That would be better than nothing