Plans to close Keswick Leisure Pool for good has plunged the town into a state of shock.
The decision has been made by Allerdale Borough Council following investigations, which have shown that the cost of reopening the pool would make it financially unviable.
A council spokesperson said the pool at the leisure centre is already over 10 years beyond its anticipated lifespan.
Maintenance work carried out during the pandemic highlighted a series of problems surrounding tiling, drainage and filters. Concerns were also raised about the working order of the pool plant systems, given their age and the fact they have not been operational for over a year.
The spokesman added that remedial works to tackle the issues would be extremely costly and might only extend the pool’s operational lifespan by a short period.
It is estimated that to reline the pool and repair drainage channels would cost between £150k – £200k. Refilling the pool with water and reheating it after prolonged closure would cost a further £20,000.
Prior to the enforced closure brought about by the pandemic, the leisure centre was already operating at a loss of around £250,000 per year.
The pool had been closed throughout the pandemic due to its design, as a leisure pool. It meant that implementing social distancing and safe one-way systems in and out of the building was difficult.
GLL, the charitable social enterprise that operates the pool on the council’s behalf under the Better brand, will be contacting members, schools and users with regards to alternative options.
A campaign group had been formed in Keswick by Councillor Markus Campbell-Savours to set out an ambitious vision for the future of leisure facilities in the town.
“We are obviously disappointed with the news of the closure, although considering the condition and age of the pool we are sadly not surprised,” said Coun Campbell-Savours.
“We have asked the council for additional information regarding the estimated repair costs and will scrutinise this decision further.”
Keswick Allerdale councillor Allan Daniels said: “It’s a shame we have lost that facility but by the same token there is no point in spending good money after bad.
“If we are losing £250,000 a year on it, it strikes me that if we save that money it could go towards a new facility.”
And Coun Sally Lansbury said: “If the pool must close it is vital that the council engage with the existing users and help them access alternative swimming provision in the area.”
Mike Johnson, leader of Allerdale council, said: “Keswick Leisure Centre has served us well over the years.
“However, despite all the maintenance that has been carried out, the pool is increasingly showing its age and it isn’t financially sustainable to run in the longer term – something the COVID pandemic has really brought into focus.
“Whilst I do apologise for any inconvenience caused to swimmers in the town, times and tastes have moved on, and we don’t want to throw good money quite literally down the plughole.
“That’s why we’re committed to making sure that the sports provision in Keswick – whatever that might be – is fit for the current and future needs of the town.”
Councillor Tony Markley, executive member with responsibility for leisure and tourism, said: “We’re committed to working with local councillors, residents and other stakeholders to invest into decent sporting facilities in Keswick.
“I’d also like to reassure all local residents that we’ll do what we can to continue to provide access to swimming facilities in our other pools, as well as keep the gym open.”
The leisure pool’s gym facility, which currently has around 400 users, will remain open and the council is keen to consult with local councillors, residents, businesses, partners and other stakeholders on future leisure provision for the town.
