Hidden Horsham - Storm in January 2007
On Thursday, January 18th 2007 a storm swept across England and into Europe. Whilst not causing nearly as much damage as the storm in October of 1987 there were still approximately 100 trees blown down across West Sussex
In Horsham perhaps the most notable damage was to the Pavilions in the Park. Roof panels were blown out of the roof of the second pavilion from the Park House end. It happened just before midday on Thursday morning when the pool was in use for swimming. No-one was hurt and the pool was evacuated without any problems
Two 5m panels ended up in the car park and have since been strapped down as the high winds continued over the next few days. There appears to be three holes in the pavilion roof so it is currently unclear whether a third, loose, panel is still on the roof. A fire tender from the nearby Fire Station attended the incident. The area of car park adjacent to this pavillion was cordoned off and by the following Saturday the scaffolding seen in the photos was in place
The centre continues to operate as normal with the exception of the main swimming pool whilst the repairs take place
A single tree was blown down in the park, near to the bowling alley
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Pavilions Notice: IMPORTANT NOTICE - Friday 19 January 2007: During yesterday's storms, damage was sustained to an area of the roof above the main swimming pool at The Pavilions In The Park. As a precaution, the centre's pools were closed during the stormy weather, though other centre facilities, i.e. fitness and health suites, gymnastics centre and indoor play area, remained open. Today, the swimming pools remain closed for the time being. However, the indoor and outdoor leisure waters and teaching pool will re-open at 3.30 pm this afternoon. We anticipate that the main pool will re-open shortly following a structural inspection of the roof. Please telephone the centre on 01403 219200 prior to your visit to confirm opening times. |
Horsham has had a swimming pool on this site since 1934. Initially it was open air but later enclosed. In January 2001 it was closed and demolished to make way for the Pavilions in the Park as featured above, opening in November 2002
 Reproduced courtesy of The Francis Frith Collection. |
 Reproduced courtesy of The Francis Frith Collection. |
Fact File | Location: RH12 2DF | Build Date: 2002 | Listed: no |
External Links: Pavilions: Contact Information Pavilions: Opening Press Release WSCT: Storm Story |
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