Our swimming pools programme: Non-users
Swimming pool programmes
Thank you to everyone who took part in the consultation. The outcomes of the review can be seen below.
If you do not currently use our pools, please take the survey by clicking on the 'Take the Survey' button.
If you are a member or a customer who does use our pools, you should have received an email direct from us with a link to a separate user survey.
The closing date for this consultation was Sunday 1 March 2026.
To find out more about what we offer at our swimming pools, go to thrive: swimming.
Phases
Outcomes of the swimming pool review
Non user survey summary
You said
You told us you appreciate swimming for health and wellbeing — and many of you want to take part, but several barriers make it difficult, particularly session times, cost, cleanliness, cold water, and confidence issues.
You also told us you would like more availability, clearer information, warmer water, better facilities, and improved accessibility, which will help more people return to or begin swimming in our pools.
99 responses were received from non‑members across County Durham pools.
Although non‑members do not currently swim, you shared what you like or value about swimming in general:
- You see swimming as healthy, low‑impact exercise, good for fitness, joints, mental health and relaxation.
- Many of you enjoy swimming when conditions are right, especially quiet, warm, clean pools, often comparing these to private or hotel facilities.
- When you do swim elsewhere, you like:
- Flexible opening hours,
- Peaceful, uncrowded pool space, and
- Warmer water and well‑maintained facilities.
- Over 51% said you were interested or curious about swimming again in the future.
Outcomes
We will review the feedback:
- Look at options to increase adult general and lane swimming where timetables allow.
- Consider improvements to session timings to support workers, families and older adults.
- Continue focusing on cleanliness and maintenance (lockers, showers, changing areas).
- Improve clarity and consistency of timetables and communication.
- Explore online booking options for public swim sessions.
- Review accessibility needs, including steps, rails and supportive sessions.