Help Bring a Public Indoor Pool to Dungarvan
For years, Dungarvan and West Waterford have been one of the few major coastal communities in Ireland without a public indoor swimming pool. This lack of local facilities creates barriers for families, schools, community groups, and clubs like the Dungarvan Barracudas who depend on reliable water time for training, lessons and water safety.
The need for a public indoor pool has never been clearer — and we’re joining the community movement to make it happen.
Why Dungarvan Needs a Community Pool
A local pool isn’t a luxury. It’s an essential public resource that supports:
Children learning to swim — especially vital in a coastal town.
School swim programmes that currently have no suitable local venue.
People with additional needs who benefit from warm-water therapy.
Adults and older people looking for low-impact fitness and rehabilitation.
Sports clubs, including triathlon, surf lifesaving and swimming.
Tourism and community health, strengthening Dungarvan’s appeal and wellbeing.
A community pool would provide accessible, year-round water safety, fitness, recreation and training for thousands of people across the region.
The Current Situation
Recent years have seen strong public momentum:
A local petition gathered nearly 2,000 signatures, demonstrating overwhelming community support.
Parents, schools and sports organisations have repeatedly highlighted the barriers created by the lack of a pool.
Waterford County Development Plan includes a commitment to support the development of a 25m community pool facility for Dungarvan / West Waterford.
Local councillors have passed motions supporting progress and renewed discussions about funding options.
Despite this, there is still no confirmed plan or timeline, and the project requires continued community visibility and pressure to move forward.
How This Affects Our Club
Dungarvan Barracudas currently relies on limited regional facilities, which restricts:
Training availability for our competitive squads
Access to consistent water time for learn-to-swim lessons
Growth and development of young swimmers in the area
Opportunities for schools and community groups to get proper water-safety education
Accessible swimming options for those who need them most
A local public pool would transform our ability to serve the community, expand programmes, and keep swimming accessible for every child, adult and family in Dungarvan.
Our Commitment
As a club, we will:
Support community advocacy for a public pool
Share updates as they develop
Promote water safety and accessibility for every resident
Collaborate with local groups pushing for the facility
Advocate in a positive, constructive way to build momentum
How You Can Help
Together, we can ensure this project stays at the top of the local agenda.
- 1. Sign the Community Petition
Add your voice to the growing number of residents calling for a local pool. Sign the Petition →]
- 2. Share the Campaign
Spread the word on social media, in schools, workplaces and community groups.
- 3. Contact Local Representatives
Let councillors know that this project matters to you and your family.
- 4. Stay Updated
Follow Dungarvan Barracudas on social media for the latest campaign updates and community calls to action.
A Pool for Everyone
A community pool in Dungarvan would be more than a sports facility — it would be a lasting public asset for health, safety and community pride. Whether you’re a parent, swimmer, teacher, coach, or someone who simply values accessible public amenities, your support makes a difference.
Together, let’s bring a public indoor swimming pool to Dungarvan.