Jubilee Park sets sights on a busy 2020

The state-of-the-art suite - a key part of the park’s blueprint for a successful future - is already up and running.

The opening ceremony is scheduled for Friday, April 3 and all parish councillors have been invited to attend.

The invitation is a sign of the cordial relationship between the company that runs the park - Jubilee Park Woodhall Spa (JPWS) - and the parish council.

The situation is far cry from six years ago the council and park supporters were at loggerheads, leading to the resignation of at least two parish councillors.

Coun Clarke’s invitation is understood to be recognition for the parish council’s efforts in securing a £350,000 loan from the Public Works Loan Board.

Emma Brealey, chairman of JPWS, has previously acknowledged the loan was an ‘essential part’ of the funding package.

The opening marks the official start of the 2020 outdoor season at the park.

The new suite features a 27-station gym, refurbished changing rooms and a new reception area for the heated open air swimming pool.

The suite actually opened to members last month and created lots of interest.

Membership includes use of the swimming pool during general and adult only times, as well as aquasize classes.

The facility is open from 6.30-9pm on weekdays and 8pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Park manager Joe Stanhope said: “The long hours means it’s ideal for people who want to work on their fitness before or after work, or the school run.

“Many of our members are not normally ‘gym goers’ and we’re delighted that they feel just as welcome as the fitness enthusiasts who have also signed up.”

A special display on Jubilee Park was launched in Woodhall Spa library last Saturday (March 14) and will run for two weeks.

On subsequent Saturdays, there will be a representative in the library to explain more about the fitness suite and membership, forthcoming events and volunteer opportunities.

There will also be the chance to buy new Jubilee Park swim towels and posters and pick up details of the new season timetable.

Other changes for 2020 include new events to add to the seasonal favourites.

The first of the popular midnight swims is on Saturday April 18- booking advised.

The ever popular free swim day is on Tuesday April 7 - adults only 6.30-9am and general swimming from 10am-7pm. Pre-booking is advised.

Mr Stanhope said the park was hoping for a bumper season and added the new facilities would provide a vital year-round income.

The opening follows a protracted process, not least securing the all-important funding.

Year round income was identified as a priority when supporters group Friends of Jubilee Park merged with JPWS on 2015 to form a single organisation.

The following year, the park became entirely self-supporting with no public funding.

For more details, visit www.jubileeparkwoodhallspa.co.uk