Sheffield Memorial Pool

Sheffield Memorial Pool was opened on 7 November 1953. The pool was a commemorative project run by the Sheffield War Memorial Committee following World War 2 (WW2). The site is not listed as a heritage site, nor is it protected under the District Plan. Commemorations of the names of fallen soldiers in WW2 are on the Sheffield War Memorial on State Highway 73.

Over the last few years, the Selwyn District Council have discussed the long-term future of the Sheffield Memorial Pool. The pool is an aging asset, requires significant renewal, and has a low user rate compared to other pools. The proximity to the renewed Darfield Pool has also been a key consideration. During this time, a variety of alternative options were explored, with community and government agencies.

The 2024-2034 Long-Term Plan consultation document requested feedback on a proposal to close the pool. 61% of respondents supported the closure. As noted in the 2024-2034 Long-Term Plan, the Council agreed to keep the pool open for the 2024-2025 swim season and during that time, begin targeted consultation with the community about the potential divestment of the facility to a community-run legal entity. If no arrangement can be agreed upon with the community by 30 June 2025, the Council will proceed with the permanent closure/demolition of the pool.

In October 2024, Council staff engaged with representatives from the following groups: Malvern Community Board, Sheffield Sports Society, Sheffield School Board of Trustees, The Locals Club, and Returned Services Association, on the likelihood that a community group could take over the Sheffield Memorial Pool.

If the public consultation leads to clear support from the community for the transfer of the Sheffield Memorial Pool to a community-run legal entity, and such an entity is identified, the Council needs to be assured that the entity is well-prepared and capable of operating the asset.

The entity also needs to be fully aware of the risk they are taking on; risk which is currently held by Council as the owner/occupier.

Therefore, it is essential that due diligence is completed by the Council and the proposed entity includes consideration of minimum criteria before transfer of the asset is finalised. These minimum criteria are set as:

• A registered legal entity such as an incorporated society or charitable trust.
• A well-structured financial plan demonstrating the organisation’s ability to manage the asset, including operational costs.

We want to know:

• If you support the transition of the Sheffield Memorial Pool asset from Council ownership and operation to a community-run legal entity.
• If you are aware of a community-run legal entity that you consider suitable to own and operate the Sheffield Memorial Pool.
• If you are interested in helping this group with the ongoing operation of this facility.
• If you have any other comments about the Sheffield Memorial Pool.