Calls for dedicated funding to upgrade local pool facilities across North Kildare

Labour Party Councillor Angela Feeney has renewed her call for major investment in swimming infrastructure in North Kildare — including Leixlip, Celbridge, Clane, Maynooth and Kilcock — following the publication of the Swim Ireland Swimming Pool Gap Analysis Report, which highlights significant national deficits in pool provision.

“The people of North Kildare deserve access to modern, fully equipped aquatic facilities”, said Cllr Feeney.

“Communities in Leixlip, Maynooth, Celbridge and Kilcock all rely on a small number of ageing pools that are under huge pressure. Swimming is not optional — it is central to water safety, sport, physical activity and community wellbeing.”

While local pools and clubs do vital work supporting residents, the national report shows:

• Ireland now has only one public pool for every 81,000+ people — far below what is needed.

• Existing pools are ageing, oversubscribed and often inaccessible to many groups.

• Many areas — including Kildare — lack access to long-course (50-metre) training facilities.

• Warm-water hydrotherapy facilities are severely limited nationwide.

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“These national trends are felt acutely here in North Kildare”, said Cllr Feeney.

“Parents in Maynooth and Kilcock tell me about year-long waiting lists for lessons. Clubs in all our large and growing towns struggle for training hours. People recovering from injury or managing chronic conditions struggle to find hydrotherapy access locally.”

Cllr Feeney says Kildare urgently needs investment in a state-of-the-art aquatic centre serving Leixlip, Celbridge, Clane, Maynooth and Kilcock, providing:

• more lane capacity for lessons and club development

•  50-metre pool capability for competitive training

•  warm-water hydrotherapy pools for rehabilitation, chronic pain and inclusive use

•  accessible design for people with disabilities and older adults

•  community spaces that support lifelong physical activity

“Hydrotherapy must be part of this plan,” Cllr Feeney stressed. “This isn’t an optional extra — it’s a lifeline for people recovering from surgery, people with disabilities, older adults, and anyone who needs low-impact therapeutic exercise.”

Cllr Feeney will in the New Year seek from the Chief Executive an all-of-Council effort to secure dedicated funding for expanded swimming facilities in North Kildare, ensuring that the combined needs of all our towns are fully recognised.

“North Kildare is growing rapidly. The demand is there. The evidence is there. And communities have been calling for this for years,” Cllr Feeney said.

“It’s time for Government and national bodies to support a modern, accessible swimming facility that genuinely meets the needs of North Kildare — and the entire county.”