Changes to Harpenden Swimming Pool and Sports Centre have been made over the past five months after a survey revealed extremely poor cleanliness and customer service. Now St Albans City and District Council wants to hear whether the changes have been successful.
Customer’s described the facilities as “very dirty” and one member “stopped going due to filthy conditions”.
St Albans City and District Council's Local Services Scrutiny Committee set up a team to review and survey the pool and centre last year.
After the final report by the Leisure Facilities Task and Finish Group in April, the facility went through a revamp, which saw the pool’s health suite receive a £50,000 upgrade and re-branded as the Live Well Spa.
Changes have included the appointment of a new General Manager to oversee both the pool and sports centre. More regular cleaning has been introduced with daily checks now being made, and staff have also undergone intensive customer service training sessions.
The Live Well Spa Pool
Now St Albans City and District Council wants to hear whether the changes have been successful and raised standards. Users can give their views in a short questionnaire that will take only five minutes to complete.
Councillor Anthony Rowlands, Chair of the Leisure Facilities Task and Finish Group for the council, said: “The responses to our survey at the start of this year showed a disturbingly high level of dissatisfaction.
“We want to know how they feel about the changes and if it has improved their experience of the pool and sports centre. These are important community assets for Harpenden and we have to ensure they are well managed. Please take the time to complete the survey and let us know your views.”
The refurbished indoor swimming pool
Spa area with new sauna and steam room
The reception area has been refurbished with new flooring and décor as well as the introduction of hot drinks and snack machines.
The survey will be available at the centre and it can also be filled in online with the consultation closing on midnight on Friday 25 September. Members of the centre will be emailed the form. To complete the survey online go to www.stalbans.gov.uk/consultations
Written by Isaac Ouro