Council chiefs defend timing of £3.8 million repairs to Peterborough indoor swimming pool

The risk of sudden closures at the Jack Hunt Swimming Pool, in Ledbury Road, Netherton, because of maintenance issues has been highlighted as the driving force behind the move to carry out a £3.8 million revamp next spring.

The works will mean a 24 weeks closure of the pool from the spring through to September next year.

The pool was built in the 1970s and the council says the structure is showing signs of ageing.

However, the closure will also take place during a temporary shutdown of the nearby Whittlesey pool leaving the city without an indoor swimming pool although the outdoor Lido in Bishop’s Road will be open.

A spokesperson for Peterborough City Council said: “We cannot delay these works and risk more unplanned closures because of maintenance issues.

"This investment programme is about improving the current facilities, replacing those aspects that are reaching the end of their serviceable life, and protecting Jack Hunt’s future so our residents can continue to enjoy it for many years to come.

"We know Jack Hunt Pool is a well-loved and well-used facility.

“It is unfortunate that the Manor Leisure Centre in Whittlesey will be undergoing its own upgrade over the next year, however, this is not a swimming pool that is within the Peterborough City Council area and we do not therefore own or manage it.

“We must, though focus on our own facilities, bringing them up to standard and making sure they are inclusive, accessible and fit for purpose."

Call for more time in the water

The announcement of the planned revamp has brought a call from some swimmers for more time for public swimming and aquafit sessions.

Swimmer Niki Ady stated on the Peterborough Telegraph Facebook page: “Would be lovely if they could also open it back up to the public for more sessions after the refit.

"I'm sure there are loads of people who would go back to the evening swim sessions and aqua fit classes.

"It seems that we have all but lost opportunities for adults to swim anything other than lanes early doors or family swim sessions when kids want to play around.”

The council spokesperson said: “Our investment into Jack Hunt Swimming Pool is essential so it can continue to be used by the secondary school, residents and local swimming clubs into the long term.

"The operator has to balance all of these demands to enable it to be available to all the parties that want to use it.

"However, as part of our wider review of all our swimming facilities, we will look to maximise the amount of time the pool is open to the public when it reopens while balancing the demand from its other users.”

What will the £3.8 million revamp mean?

The repairs will be funded by £2.2 million from the council plus a £794,000 grant from Sports England.

The works will include a modernisation of the plant room, replacing lighting, renewing the pool tank, refurbishing changing rooms for improved accessibility and inclusivity, upgrading the air handling system, and implementing fire safety enhancements.

Councillors will meet on July 21 to approve the funding.