An even greater number of people will be able to use one of the city’s most popular swimming pools, after the addition of a new piece of equipment to increase accessibility.
In recent years, many visitors to Riverside Leisure Centre who have decreased mobility have been using a pool hoist to gain access to the pool. However, this has now been replaced with a new, state-of-the-art Pool Pod which will offer an improved solution going forward.
The new pool pod which is a user controlled lift, can be operated independently allowing users a more dignified entrance and exit from the pool. The pod is designed to allow access for anyone who would struggle or find it inappropriate to access the pool via the steps.
Louise Rawsthorne, executive director of community services at Norwich City Council said. “We are really pleased that people of all ages and ability will now have improved access to the pool at Riverside with the installation of the Pool Pod”.
Riverside Leisure Centre is managed by Places Leisure, on behalf of Norwich City Council. The partnership tackles many of the council’s health and wellbeing and strategic priorities whilst maintaining the popular public facility.
“We’re excited to offer this new addition to the pool and enhance our swimming experience for customers.” commented Lawrence Cheese, general manager at Riverside Leisure Centre. “The Pool pod offers a greater level of independence for people living with a disability and increased access for the less mobile or those recovering from injury; letting them enjoy the many benefits of swimming and getting them active quickly and comfortably.
“The submersible wheelchair can be accessed from the comfort and privacy of the changing facilities or alternatively swimmers can stand directly on the platform to aid their entry into the water. As a social enterprise inclusivity is the lynchpin of what we do and we hope to encourage more members of our community to enjoy a love of swimming without access to the pool being a barrier.”
FAQs and a list of opening times and available activities can be found on the Norwich page on the Places Leisure website.
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