Almost 2000 submissions were made about council’s proposed open space/recreation strategy but pleas for more time to consider the report have been rejected.
A spokeswoman said 644 original submissions, 1354 template submissions and two petitions were received.
The vast majority were in response to controversial proposals to close seven council pools, including the three outdoor pools at Katoomba and smaller pools at Blackheath and Lawson.
The Blackheath Alliance and the local branch of the Teachers Federation were among those seeking more time to consider the 84-page report and its 277 pages of accompanying documents.
The Alliance was also concerned that, while the community was aware of the pool closure proposals, it was not across the whole strategy, which canvassed everything from playground equipment to bike paths to bushwalking tracks to sporting fields.
The alliance specifically rejected the pools closure proposal, as well as a suggestion that old play equipment not be replaced.
In a letter to the general manager, Rosemary Dillon, it called on councillors to reject the report and formally requested more explanation and clarification, as well as more time.
This was echoed by John Tognolini on behalf of the Blue Mountains Association of the NSW Teachers Federation, representing 188 teachers in the Mid and Upper Blue Mountains.
Mr Tognolini’s submission also said closure of the pools would make the primary school swimming programs unachievable for many Upper Mountains schools.
“Students in the first years of primary school use these pools as major stepping stones to becoming lifelong strong swimmers. It is at this age when we make an impact on the drowning statistics, not only amongst children but also in the later years of youth,” he wrote.
“Last year 291 Australians died from drowning. That statistic will grow if Blue Mountains City Council denies pool access to students in our local government area. The idea of replacing these pools with splash pads is a poor joke. Children do not learn to swim on splash pads.”
The Friends of Blackheath Pool set up a table outside the gates earlier this month and gathered more than 1,000 submissions in less than three days, all opposing closures.
Convenor Jenny Kelly said: “Many were very enthusiastic at the chance to give their feedback about the outdoor pools, including children who don’t want to see their pools go.”
The council spokeswoman said the consultation period, already extended once, would not be extended further. A report on the submissions will be presented at February’s council meeting.