A Cornish MP has launched a formal Parliamentary petition calling on the Government to support the development of swimming pool facilities in Falmouth, following the 2022 closure of the town’s only public pool.

Despite the town’s deep maritime identity, Falmouth is the only Community Area Partnership in Cornwall without a public swimming facility.

Jayne Kirkham, MP for Truro and Falmouth, has launched a petition that calls on the Government to recognise the significant health, safety, and social benefits of providing swimming facilities for residents in the Truro and Falmouth constituency and support the campaign to provide a pool for Falmouth.

Ms Kirkham said: “Swimming all year round is something we shouldn’t take for granted. The benefits are vast, which is why it is so important, especially for our young people, that everyone has the chance to learn in a safe environment.”

“Swimming is not just a sport, it is a life skill, especially in coastal communities like ours. Every child in Falmouth should have the opportunity to learn to swim safely and affordably. Losing the pool has left a gap in education, safety, and community health.”

After Ships and Castles Leisure Centre was closed by Cornwall Council in 2022, Falmouth Town Council took on the building. Community interest company Pendennis Leisure is currently running the leisure centre as a community centre, but it will take significant investment to restore a pool for Falmouth.

The petition is open to all residents of the Truro and Falmouth constituency and must be signed in person. A full list of signing locations and updates on the campaign can be found by visiting www.jaynekirkham.co.uk

Once enough signatures are collected, the petition will be formally presented to the Speaker of the House of Commons.