Plans to have new Castle Rushen High School and pool ready by 2030

But minister can't confirm if Southern Swimming Pool will stay open until then

A new secondary school in Castletown - complete with a sports hub and swimming pool - could be completed by 2030.

That’s the pledge from the education, sport and culture minister who has today (25 January) unveiled what she’s described as an ‘indicative masterplan’ for the southern site.

Julie Edge says she’s been developing this ‘strategic vision’ for some time adding she's ‘delighted’ to share it with the public.

The so-called ‘masterplan’ will now inform the design stage of the project and next steps.

It’s understood the school will be constructed first, in stages, so that education can continue at Castle Rushen High School.

This will be followed by the sports block and six-lane pool – both of which will be open to the public.

No documentation relating to the masterplan except a 'conceptual image' has been released. 

Ms Edge added: “I know how important this development is and it is our intention to move at pace to complete this much needed education and community infrastructure for the south.”

But Minister Edge hasn’t been able to confirm if the Southern Swimming Pool will remain open until the new facility is created.

She spoke to Lewis Foster:

Manx Radio has asked the DESC for confirmation about how much of the ‘masterplan’ has received financial backing from Treasury.

It says: "The Department of Education, Sport and Culture has received funding for the design stage of this project only. Funding for the subsequent stages of the masterplan, including construction, would be subject to Tynwald approval."