In response to Gilly Powell's letter (March 6) we welcome the opportunity to clarify our position and plans regarding investment into Ledbury Swimming Pool and our proposal to support more local people to be more active more often.

As a registered charity and social enterprise, all profits are ploughed back into our facilities and – as part of an extensive refurbishment programme across the county – we now have planning permission (and an earmarked £2m borrowing) to upgrade the facilities at Ledbury Swimming Pool for the benefit of current users and the wider community.

At the moment the plans include a bigger gym and a new onsite workout studio, the latter to support the growing demand for personal training, our hugely popular group exercise programme, and the wellbeing advice and guidance we offer to clients whose GP recommends they get more physically active.

We note the concern about the village-style changing facilities and want to reassure that this is now a preferred model across the UK because it creates a safer, cleaner environment, enhances the safeguarding of children, and is popular with families.

The facilities will also include individual shower and changing cubicles for men and women.

We would welcome any further feedback from members and non members of Halo.

You can do this at your local Halo centre or online at www.haloleisure.org.uk.

This accessible but simple service is used by thousands of members whose thoughts and ideas help shape our plans and policies as we move forward.

We'd also encourage residents to take a look at the refurbishments at Halo centres at Ross, Leominster and Hereford to see how we're enhancing provision across the county and the difference it's making to local people who visit their local Halo centre to work out or wind down.

Alex Haines

Herefordshire Partnership Manager

Cathy Fletcher

Marketing Manager

Halo Support Centre