No more nonsense: We petition Brixham Town Council to take back Shoalstone Pool on behalf of the community and Brixham's future generations.

After the successful fight by volunteers to save it in 2012, Torbay Council putShoalstone Pool out to tender in 2013 and it was sub-let to Brixham Community Trust Ltd with Nautique Dive CentrePaignton managing the pool. Grants were given fromTorbay Council (£22,500), Brixham Town Council (£5,000),withfurtherhelp from the Friends of Shoalstone Pool and large donations from major contributors to the Town's economy (£7,500). The Community Trust nowadmits that "the money for maintenance and lifeguards ran out", and that"there's a problem within the Trust" and they have handed the pool back to Torbay Council.

Shoalstone Pool isBrixham's outdoor seawater pool,and is loved by residents and visitors of all ages. It provides an important facility for local young people and it has existed since around 1896. Until Brixham became part of Torbay unitary authority in 1968, the pool was funded and managed by Brixham Council. Brixham is the country's most important fishing port, and awareness of the sea and swimming is essential for the town's youngsters. Shoalstone Pool was built by Brixham Urban District Council for health and tourism and it is the town's heritage and its legacy to its children. It was packed out with locals and tourists this summer. Locally elected representatives have a duty to care for it and preserve it. With the community support that is available, the only cost is lifeguards - some £20,000 annually. Brixham Town Council now needs urgently and without any further delay to show its respect for all the goodwill and support the community has offered, and continues to offer. No more nonsense: it's time for Brixham Town Council to accept its responsibilities and take back control of the pool.

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