New Banagher outdoor pool opens to the public

The brand-new outdoor pool in Banagher Shannon Bank Park opened for business on Sunday (September 28).

The installation of new state-of-the-art outdoor swimming pool began on Monday, September 1, with the removal of the old outdoor pool.

The new facility features wheelchair access, enhanced seating, wider pontoons, and improved facilities.

A spokesperson from the Shannon Bank Park team said ancillary works to the wider park area, including landscaping, grass seeding, and signage, are expected to continue over the coming months.

While an official opening date is yet to be confirmed, the full set of works on Banagher Shannon Bank Park are expected to be completed by next Spring.

The pool project, which is expected to cost close to €1 million, has been supported by the Fáilte Ireland and the EU Just Transition Fund and a significant local fundraising effort.

The team from Shannon Bank Park has expressed their thanks to the the local community for their amazing fundraising support.

Fundraising initiatives held in support of the pool this year included a Carrauntoohil Challenge in May, a River Shannon Swim Challenge in June, Conor Horn’s 'May the Fourth Mountain March', a pony trek, the 'Last Ever ‘80s Nostalgia Night' at Melba’s nightclub in Birr, a monster auction at Corrigan’s Corner House, a tractor run, and several school-led events.

Significant supporters of the campaign's cause were the local 'Beat on the Street' Festival and the 'Runners V Riders' fundraising group.

Sponsored nameplates, an online iDonate page and a tap-to-donate machine in the park also contributed to the campaign's overall fundraising total.