A group of local residents are hoping to save the outdoor Centennial Pool in Cobourg for 2024 and beyond. 

During 2023 budget deliberations earlier this year, the pool was slated to be closed this past summer and be decommissioned next year. Strong public response at the time led to the pool getting funded in the Cobourg budget for this year.

Meghan Thomas, one of the lead petition organizers, said there was a great response to a petition with over 3,000 signatures in a short time to show support for the pool which has been in operation since 1967.

“The main reason is people see this as a really important fitness and recreational and social asset for the town,” Thomas said. “People of all ages and abilities use the pool from babies right up to seniors. There’s so many different kinds of activities that take place there.”

The pool is operated by YMCA Northumberland in partnership with the town and access is included in membership while non-YMCA members can pay a daily fee to use the pool.

The Centennial Pool building would need to be brought up to accessibility standards. Photo by Jeff Gard

Cobourg’s Director of Community Services Brian Geerts says Centennial Pool is well beyond its lifespan, is not accessible, and, at this time, the town does not have costed options for replacement or repair of the pool. Preliminary options will be available during the 2024 budget deliberations.

Geerts said the town is refining two design options for the Victoria Park campground renewal project as both the campground and pool sites will require new washroom and change room facilities, adding early this fall the town will be soliciting public feedback on two proposed designs. That public consultation will share the work to date regarding land use optimization.  

Thomas said an enthusiastic group of 20-25 members, with more welcome, are getting creative with fundraising ideas to help keep the pool in operation. She also expects there to be an Engage Cobourg survey from the town about the pool this fall and hopes residents take the time to share their opinion. 

To learn more, visit the Facebook group Save Cobourg Centennial Pool.The petition is available at at this link.

Listen below to the full interview with Meghan Thomas: