ABERAERON town councillors have decided against giving the town’s pool any financial assistance.

Members came to their decision after hearing that the pool’s finances were currently healthy – but stressed that they would be more than willing to provide funding in the future.

Town clerk Denfer Morgan disclosed that the pool had enjoyed a surplus of £41,135 at the end of the financial year, but that was expected to drop to just under £24,000 in the current year.

Town mayor Cllr Rhys Davies revealed pool trustees were thinking of upgrading the till system with modern touch screens.

“Would it be better for us to contribute to something like that rather than simply donating towards running costs?” he asked.

However, Cllrs Phill Davies and Darryl Evans admitted they would feel uncomfortable at providing financial aid for a body with such a healthy surplus.

“At the moment I would say ‘no’ because they have money in the bank,” said Cllr Evans.

“I am sure that in the future we could provide help as the pool is obviously a very important facility for the town.

“So we should stress that we would very much like to work with them in the future.”

Cllr Davies said he had first-hand experience of the pool’s value.

“Having had kids who were taught to swim there I appreciate as much as anyone what a vital facility this is to have in our community – particularly a seaside town like ourselves,” he added.

“However, I am afraid that we should reluctantly state we are unable to help at present, although we feel confident we will be able to assist them with project costs further down the road.”

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