In the heatwaves, it’s crucial’: the fight to save France’s rural swimming pools
The French countryside is parched, and the summer heatwaves have left many rural families struggling to find relief. For those on low incomes, the village swimming pools have become a lifeline, offering a much-needed respite from the sweltering temperatures. These pools are not just a place to cool off, but also a vital resource for teaching swimming and promoting community well-being.
However, France's rural swimming pools are in crisis. Many of these facilities, built in the 1970s, are now facing high running costs and shrinking village budgets. The mayors of these villages are determined to keep their pools open, but the financial strain is real. The situation is particularly dire in Châteauneuf-sur-Sarthe, where the annual cost of maintaining the pool is at least €100,000, and the mayor is concerned about the potential for sudden repairs that could lead to closure.
The issue is not just about the financial burden. It's also about the cultural and social significance of these pools. For many, they are a place of community gathering, a space for social interaction, and a source of mental and physical health benefits. The pools are often the only leisure option in rural areas, and their closure would leave residents feeling abandoned.
The history of these pools is also significant. In 1969, after a series of tragic drownings and poor swimming performance at the Olympics, the French government launched a plan to build 1,000 pools in rural areas. Over 600 were built, but many are now in urgent need of renovation. The pools are not just a matter of infrastructure; they are a symbol of a commitment to public health and community well-being.
The fight to save these pools is not just about financial support. It's about recognizing the value of these facilities and the role they play in French rural communities. The village collectives, like Touche Pas à Ma Piscine, are campaigning for more government support and raising awareness about the importance of these pools. They are also volunteering to help run the pools, painting, and carrying out maintenance work.
In Rochefort-sur-Loire, the local pool support group has taken a creative approach. They have decorated the village with flippers and rubber rings, and even hosted a poet in residence at the pool. This is not just about saving the pool; it's about making it the focus of community life. The group understands that the pool is more than just a place to swim; it's a place for social interaction, cultural events, and community building.
The impact of these pools on mental and physical health is significant. The mayor of Juigné-sur-Loire, Didier Le Gall, emphasizes the importance of the pool, especially for families on low incomes. He notes that the pool is not just a place to learn to swim but also a place for social interaction and community building. The pool's impact on mental health is particularly notable, as it provides a space for people to relax and cool off during the heatwaves.
The volunteers and workers at these pools are also passionate about their cause. Bruno Cheminat, a former special educational needs teacher and competitive swimmer, volunteers his time to help with painting and maintenance work. He finds joy in being the first in the water in the morning, and the pool has become a central part of his daily routine. Estelle, a former flight attendant, works at the pool's reception and finds the water boosts her mood, offering a peaceful view of the trees and the church.
The fight to save France's rural swimming pools is a battle for the heart and soul of these communities. It's about recognizing the value of these facilities, the cultural and social significance they hold, and the impact they have on the well-being of the people who rely on them. It's a call to action for the government, local authorities, and the community to come together and ensure that these pools remain open for generations to come.
