The town’s long-awaited reopening of its swimming pool at the Abbeyfield Hotel was celebrated with great enthusiasm on Friday, marking a significant boost for the local community and economy. The Splash Swim School, a respected national swim operator, has taken over management of the facility, creating more than 20 new jobs in the area.
The pool, which had been closed since January 2023 due to a critical equipment failure, reopened following extensive refurbishment and preparation. The closure had caused frustration among residents and sparked a strong community campaign for its revival, including an online petition that gathered over 1,500 signatures.
Speaking at the official opening, Bríd Graham, CEO of Splash Swim School and a Ballaghaderreen native, highlighted the importance of the pool for Roscommon and neighbouring counties. “We want to put our own stamp on this facility to serve the people of Roscommon and beyond,” she said. “Already, we have visitors coming from Sligo, Longford, Mayo, and other surrounding areas.”
The reopening was particularly timely, coinciding with a spell of warm weather that has drawn people seeking relief and recreational opportunities. Graham emphasized the pool’s safety features and accessibility: “The pool is 4.2 metres deep throughout and offers clear visibility for lifeguards, ensuring a safe environment for swimmers of all ages.”
The facility operates seven days a week, offering individual and group sessions as well as a wide range of swimming lessons. Since its founding in 2015, Splash Swim School has taught over 6,000 swimmers across Ireland, with locations in Sligo, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Waterford, and now Ballaghaderreen, which marks their ninth facility.
“We are already welcoming a diverse range of swimmers—from babies as young as three months to people in their late 80s, including returned emigrants, new residents, and individuals with intellectual needs,” Graham added.
With bookings available through their website, splashswim, the pool is expected to see high demand throughout the year, especially during the colder months when indoor swimming facilities are in greater demand.
Local dignitaries, including Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane for Galway and Roscommon, and representatives from Aurivo Co-operative, attended the official ceremony alongside the Graham family and community members.
The reopening of the Ballaghaderreen pool represents a renewed investment in the town’s recreational infrastructure and community wellbeing, signaling positive growth for the region.
