A wave of frustration is building in Frome after repeated problems at the town’s leisure centre have disrupted swimming lessons and inconvenienced many users. Damage to the centre’s boiler, poor communication from management, and halted swim classes have left local families and school groups feeling let down.
Anna Sabine, Member of Parliament for Frome and East Somerset, has called on leisure operator Fusion to urgently resolve these ongoing issues. Despite a recent meeting where Fusion’s senior management assured that repairs were underway, the situation has not improved. The leisure centre’s boiler failed again, resulting in colder pool temperatures and the suspension of swim school sessions.
“Families and community members rely heavily on this facility,” Sabine said. “They deserve clear updates, fair compensation, and tangible solutions to ensure swimming lessons and other services can continue without further interruption.”
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Parents have expressed concern over the impact on children’s development and wellbeing due to the disruption of swim classes, especially for school groups that regularly use the centre. Sabine has reached out to Fusion multiple times for progress updates but has yet to receive a satisfactory response.
In response, Fusion confirmed the boiler, which was previously repaired, is now being replaced entirely with a newer, more energy-efficient model expected to be operational by mid-July. A spokesperson for Fusion stated, “We are working hard to resolve the boiler issue and reduce further disruption. Installation of the new boiler is underway and will be completed by mid-July.”
Fusion also highlighted additional improvements based on user feedback, such as hiring a new cleaning team with enhanced daily cleaning protocols, repainting, repairs, and installing new poolside lighting. While the pool remains open, it operates at lower temperatures, resulting in the suspension of swimming lessons to meet industry guidelines.
Fusion assured affected swim school members that they will receive credits for missed sessions and catch-up classes will be available in August. Furthermore, swim school members retain free pool access during the summer holidays after the new boiler installation. Alternatives at nearby Fusion centres in Shepton Mallet and Wells are also being offered.
Fusion’s senior directors have met with Anna Sabine and expressed willingness to meet again to provide further updates. They have committed to keeping members informed throughout the repair process.
Anna Sabine encourages everyone impacted to continue sharing their experiences through her office as she advocates for a dependable, transparent, and community-focused leisure service across the region.