Northumberland County Council's cabinet has approved plans to spend £1.6 million repairing the ceiling at Blyth Swimming Pool, which has been closed since January after some sections were noticed to be sagging.
Closure Extended for Comprehensive Repairs
The pool, part of Blyth Sports Centre dating back to the 1960s, is expected to remain closed until next summer while a new suspended ceiling is installed. Further investigations found an opportunity to remove asbestos-containing materials, install new gantries, and carry out other improvement works in the temporarily exposed roof void.
A report presented to cabinet members on Tuesday explained that while this would mean a longer closure, it would avoid the need for additional closures in the future. Residents with swim-only leisure memberships will not be charged while the pool is closed.
Additional Compensation and Membership Adjustments
As well as the refurbishment, the council is setting aside £745,000 for compensation payments to leisure operator Places Leisure for loss of income while the swimming pool hall remains closed. The report stated this would be funded from the council's contingency fund.
Speaking at the meeting, cabinet member for leisure Councillor Wendy Pattison said: "Essential works are needed to address issues in the Blyth pool area. This includes a full ceiling replacement, new access systems and wider improvements to enhance the overall environment. We do fully understand this is very disappointing as the swimming pool will be closed while the work is taking place. However, other areas of Blyth Leisure Centre will be operating as usual."
A new Blyth Premium membership will be available during the closure, giving access to the gym and fitness classes. The Places Leisure Team will be on hand to process and discuss membership details and changes with anyone concerned about paying extra.
Background and Resident Frustration
The pool closed unexpectedly in January, with bosses blaming unforeseen technical difficulties. Initially closed only for the weekend, the closure was subsequently extended. It was June before the council confirmed why the pool had been closed and that the closure would be in place for the foreseeable future. This led to frustration from residents who said there had been a lack of clear communication around the situation.
