BIG SPLASH FOR FENHAM POOL

12.01.00am GMT Sun 14th Dec 2008

Fenham Pool has been awarded a grant of £160,000 towards the cost of improving the baths.

The money will be used to help pay for new equipment and improvements to make the building more energy efficient.

This investment should slash Fenham Pool's operating costs and in the long term help make the facility self-sufficient.

The grant has been awarded by the Newcastle Arts and Culture Trust, which is funded by Newcastle City Council.

Meanwhile, the Fenham and Blakelaw Ward Committees have each given grants of £5,000 to support the pool's running costs.

Councillor PJ Morrissey says: "Fenham Pool is a popular local facility used by thousands of people every year since it re-opened three years ago.

"This grant will go a long way to helping the pool improve the facilities for the community and be a financial success."