Glasgow community launch campaign to get Whitehill pool re-opened

Members of tenants’ and community union Living Rent and the Save Whitehill Pool campaign group will host a campaign launch night and fundraiser to reconnect neighbours and grow support for the next phase of campaigning to reopen Whitehill Pool in Dennistoun.

The event will take place from 7pm on September 19 at St Rollox Bowling Club and will feature a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses, and performances from local DJs and bands.

(Image: Image: Google Maps)

It comes after Whitehill Pool was closed in December 2023, following the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in the building’s structure.

It is the second time the pool has closed since 2020 – the first being due to the pandemic - and is currently the only swimming pool in Glasgow not reopening ahead of the Commonwealth Games in 2026.

The facility is owned by Glasgow Life.

(Image: Images by Gordon Terris of DCC members)

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The Glasgow Times previously spoke with Valery Tough, secretary of the Dennistoun Community Council, who said that the closure was a total blow to the community as it was yet another leisure facility that Dennistoun had lost.

In recent years, residents have also lost access to Alexandra Park Hub and Bluevale Community Hall.

Molly Quinn, a Dennistoun resident, said: "Whitehill swimming pool has given me community, life skills and job opportunities, and it’s an asset to the Dennistoun community.

"It will be devastating if Whitehill Pool is allowed to close for good. Glasgow is infamous for the poor health of its residents, and we need proper health and leisure facilities if this is going to improve in the long term."

(Image: Bill pictured by Robert Perry)

We also previously spoke with Bill Stark, Whitehill Swimming Club volunteer, who detailed the affect that closure has had on the swimming team.

Following the closure, the swimming club was shifted to Glasgow Club Springburn – where they only have a two-hour slot a week. However, Springburn Pool is now shut for refurbishment until 2026.

Bill Stark, chair of the Save Whitehill Pool campaign group, has now said that the community demands that Whitehill Pool and the ‘dry side’ facilities are reinstated.

He said the Campaign is fully committed to gathering evidence to support the business case for a new or fully refurbished facility and that they are working with Glasgow Life to develop a sound business case.

He added: "The next steps involve applying pressure through canvassing, to elected members at all levels, from local councillors, Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) and Westminster Members of Parliament (MPs).”

(Image: Image of Bill by Robert Perry)

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Meanwhile, Mary Ann Townsley, chair of Living Rent Dennistoun Branch, said: “Whitehill Pool has been at the heart of Dennistoun for decades. Its closure is a major blow to local families, schoolchildren and elderly residents who rely on it not only for health and fitness, but also for friendship and social interaction.

"The loss of Whitehill Pool has significantly impacted daily life, affecting not only sporting activities but also everyday routines that promote well-being, connection, and support. These are necessities, not luxuries. Residents told us that the alternative pools are all located outside the local area, which adds extra travel time and costs for families who are already under pressure from the economic and housing crises.  Many are so discouraged from using them, or give up.

"As a community-rooted union, Living Rent fully supports the Save Whitehill Pool campaign group. Dennistoun residents must have their swimming pool back."

For more information on the upcoming fundraiser, visit https://www.facebook.com/LivingRentGlasgow