Swimmers brand pool cover-up as ridiculous

New measures to hide the swimming pool at a Black Country leisure centre from public view have been branded as "ridiculous" and "over the top" by users.

A frosted film covers 58 windows at Darlaston Leisure Centre, while a 'modesty barrier' is to be erected screening the pool from the open-plan reception.

The move came after a request from the Muslim community because women do not want others to see them swimming, but Walsall Council chiefs insist they carried out the changes for the benefit of all the community.

They have hit back at criticism claiming the measures will benefit everyone, adding: "not everyone is confident in their speedos.

But regular users yesterday told the Express & Star they are not embarrassed to be seen swimming and changes were not needed.

NHS worker Conner Evans, 19, of Hough Road, Pleck, said: "I think it is a bit ridiculous. I remember when it first opened there was a furore about people standing up the glass looking in but nothing happened then.

"It is expected when you go swimming you semi-naked like everyone else is. I think it is stupid and doesn't make any difference."

Fitter Carl Reeves, 41, from Caldmore, said: "In some respects it is a good idea as I have got three young children and these days you don't know who is looking in.

"But in some pools spectators are there anyway and can watch so whats the harm? There are other things to worry about rather than windows being covered.

"I don't feel embarrassed about swimming, I am there to have fun with my children. I come here every week and nothing was mentioned in advance.

"It is going a little bit over the top, when I was young there were outside pools where anybody could see you."

Michelle Mirom, 44, of Bush Street, Darlaston, added: "It is a bit silly wasting money that could be spent elsewhere.

"It is a bit unnecessary and you don't see anyone looking in anyway. If there are ever any gangs outside they are told to move on."

However, Louise Holdcroft, aged 38, from Aldridge, said: "It is probably a good idea as some people can feel a bit embarrassed and intimidated."

The authority has said that funding to create the barrier will come from "external" grants and not from council coffers.

It comes after the Express & Star revealed on Saturday that dark film had been used to cover low window panels, with the £1,400 cost for that also coming from elsewhere.

Leisure chief councillor Anthony Harris said: "These measures are of benefit to everyone who will use the pool and ensure that the overall experience at Darlaston is a pleasant one for all members of the community, and not for any specific group."

Chris Holliday, head of leisure and culture at Walsall Council added: "Whilst ladies from various communities may have their own reasons for requesting such privacy, it applies equally to users of all ages. Not everyone is confident in their Speedos."