This week I held an important adjournment debate in the House of Commons Chamber on the future of Broomhill Lido.

Up to this point, approximately £7 million has been secured to reopen the facility. But there is a shortfall of around £2.5 million.

I do believe there is a pathway to us securing this money, however it does require a few different things to fall into place.

Support from the Government both financially and symbolically is clearly important. Hence the reason for my special debate.

One key point is that if the pool isn’t brought back into use and nothing is done, there will be a cost associated with this for the local council. Any further deterioration of the pool and site will place a financial liability on the council to rectify the situation, and that cost would likely be in the millions.

Broomhill Pool is one of just 17 listed lidos in Britain and has a unique Art Deco style. It is also one of our town’s most iconic and loved buildings.

When we’ve already come so far in terms of raising funds alongside attracting large outside investment in the facility, it would be a great mistake in my view to give up.

The Minister reassured me by her comments during the debate and promised to visit Broomhill Lido soon, whilst meetings continue locally regarding raising the necessary funds.

Alongside the Minister and I, Dr Dan Poulter for the neighbouring Central Suffolk and North Ipswich also gave a speech. Interestingly, the entrance to the Lido is in Central Suffolk and North Ipswich’s constituency, whilst the bulk of the pool is in the Ipswich constituency.

Delivering this project will bring significant physical and mental health benefits alongside economic and cultural/heritage benefits. I am cautiously optimistic we can get this important project over the line!

During my debate I also mentioned my recent visit to Northgate Athletics Track where Ipswich Harriers train. The facility has been going since the late 19th century. It is a brilliant facility, but much like Broomhill is in need of investment.

The running track needs to be resurfaced and the long-term future of the track needs to be addressed following Ipswich Borough Council pulling out a few months ago, which took many by surprise and has left many questions unanswered.

Fortunately, the short term future of the site is secured but we need more long term progress.

Like Broomhill, Northgate is a key facility in Ipswich for physical and mental health benefits. Hundreds of Ipswich residents get a huge amount from the club and the facility, and I will do all I can to help secure the much needed investment to resolve the issues surrounding its long term future.

I also want to add my congratulations to Ipswich Wanderers FC for achieving back to back promotions. It was confirmed this week following Thetford Town’s defeat against Norwich United. Champions last season, champions this season.

This has been a great success story that at times has been in danger of being a bit under the radar. I am confident this isn’t the end of their exciting journey as a club. Huge well done to all the players, the leadership team, staff of the club and everyone else associated with it.

It has been a pleasure to watch a few of their games this season and seems to have awoken a bit of passion for non-league football. I wish the club the best of luck as they enter the Isthmian League, for the first time in history.

Hopefully this is not the only promotion in the Town this season!