A PENSIONER who regularly uses the pool at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre is outraged by plans to revamp the changing rooms into unisex ones.
Janet Lorand, 65, of Humberston Fitties, has concerns that the new plans may encourage paedophiles, sexual accusations and sex in cubicles.
Janet, who has been a member of the leisure centre for nine years, has a 250 signature petition objecting to the £635,000 revamp.
"I couldn't believe it when I heard they were planning unisex changing rooms – I didn't know it was legal!" said Janet.
"Most people didn't know about this, and people who I spoke to said they wouldn't come swimming if the changing rooms were unisex.
"Especially older people, which is a shame because it's good exercise and they meet new friends.
"I normally swim in the morning at 7.15am and I have met so many new people."
Refurbishment work is planned for the end of the year and it has been made possible by a £317,000 National Lottery grant, with the rest of the money coming from North East Lincolnshire Council's capital budget.
Janet added: "I have never done anything like this before, but it is something I am so against, it has motivated me to do something about it.
"One lady who signed the petition was concerned that people who had been physically or sexually abused by the opposite sex, would find it too intimidating to use the unisex facilities.
"There were also concerns about exposure and mobile phone cameras.
"Many people are quite shy and would prefer to have separate areas which is understandable.
"Parents with young families thought unisex was good for them as both parents could deal with their child. But they also thought male, female and family facilities would be better for everyone as it gives people a choice.
"I'm not against the overhaul of the changing rooms, in fact I think it would be great. However, I don't agree with the plans of combining the changing rooms."
The work will see the existing poolside changing rooms introduced to a modern layout that meets Sport England's latest guidelines.
Humberston and New Waltham councillor, Stephen Harness (UKIP), supports Janet. He said: "I think it needs to be put to public consultation."
