As Thames Pool faces permanent closure — another London, Ont. pool also at flood risk
CTV
An online campaign to save Thames Pool from permanent closure is gaining momentum, however, CTV News London has learned that another public pool near the river faces similar risks from fluctuating water levels.
An online campaign to save Thames Pool from permanent closure is gaining momentum, however, CTV News London has learned that another public pool near the river faces similar risks from fluctuating water levels.
On Wednesday, city staff released a report recommending that Thames Pool on Ridout Street be decommissioned because of the annual cost to repair damage caused by flooding and a high water table.
Coun. Elizabeth Peloza worries about the impacts rising river levels will have on other public pools in London.
“We have other outdoor pools too. Will there be a problem with them? Recognizing another one of our pools at Gibbons Park is also in a floodplain,” said Peloza.
Jon Paul McGonigle, director of recreation and sport said Gibbons Pool is at a higher elevation than Thames Pool — but the threat of flood damage exists.
“I certainly hope not, but Gibbons was built in the floodplain, so that possibility will exist,” McGonigle admitted.
Located in Gibbons Park in the Old North neighbourhood, the heated 25-metre lap pool includes diving boards and diving wells.
