Access to safe swimming facilities

Sir, May I add another voice to the growing chorus of concern and discontent at the grim outlook for swimming in London (letters, August 7 and 12)? “Health and safety” seems to have become the last refuge of local government wishing to reduce swimming for financial reasons.

Even the historic and famous Hampstead Heath Ponds, rising as pure natural spring water, are under threat as all-year working and other swimming are faced with increasing restrictions imposed by the Corporation of London. At the nearby Gospel Park Lido, now also managed by the Corporation of London, there are plans to reduce a splendid swimming facility to what will largely become a gigantic paddling pool, against the express wishes of swimmers and residents.

Its last remaining diving

PROMOTED CONTENT