A new revolutionary Poolpod facility has become fully operational at Banbridge Leisure Centre, making the swimming pool accessible for all guests.

This pioneering platform lift system transforms access to swimming pools for people with disabilities and restricted mobility.

Supplied by Disability Sport NI and funded by the Department for Communities, the Poolpod facility was first introduced to Banbridge Leisure Centre in February 2020, unfortunately due to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown, use of the Poolpod was limited by restrictions, however with the centre once again welcoming back users to the pool, the benefits of this system can now be fully enjoyed.

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Originally developed for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Poolpod is suitable  for a wide range of users, including people recovering from injury, older people, pregnant ladies and ambulant disabled people, in addition to wheelchair users. It can be used while standing, or alternatively people can make use of the custom designed submersible wheelchair, which can be accessed in the comfort and privacy of the changing room, to aid their entry and exit to the pool.

Poolpod offers quick and simple access enabling the centre to provide inclusive swimming for all abilities.