Temporary closure of Radcliffe main pool

Work has re-commenced on site at Radcliffe Pool and Fitness Centre to remove asbestos cladding from the main pool area.

The work will take around six weeks to complete and will provide a clearer picture of the condition of the building.

The main pool at the centre is now likely to remain closed for several months rather than weeks. In the meantime, for the teaching pool and the rest of the centre, it is business as usual. 

The main pool had to be closed to the public in December last year following significant wind damage. In January this year further damage was caused, again by high winds. Unfortunately, while carrying out the wind damage repairs, structural defects were discovered which has resulted in a much bigger
repair job than was first anticipated. Initially, it was hoped the main pool would re-open again in a matter of weeks. 

Councillor Mike Connolly, leader of Bury Council, said: “Due to the poor condition of the concrete columns, corroded steelwork and presence of asbestos, further investigation work is required. Although we are ensuring that all areas open to the public are safe from asbestos, this is causing added complications to the investigation work. 

“Dealing with structural faults of this nature does require careful planning and more time is needed to build a clearer picture of the condition of the whole building, its structure and its services; and we need to determine how much the repair works will cost. While we do all this, it is business as usual for the rest of the centre. 

“It is regrettable that the main pool has to remain closed for longer than we would like, but we can assure our customers that we are looking at a range of temporary options. These include whether it is feasible to temporarily provide an under-cover mobile pool and looking at how this could link with
existing facilities such as reception and changing rooms.  We should know by the end of the month
whether this is an option.”

In the meantime, lessons in the teaching pool at Radcliffe Pool and Fitness Centre are continuing. Swimming lessons that would usually take place in the main pool are taking place at Castle Leisure Centre instead. The pool programmes at Radcliffe Pool and Fitness Centre and at Castle Leisure Centre are currently being reviewed to make sure best use is being made of the pool space available and to reduce waiting times for swimming lessons. 

A full programme of swimming activities is ongoing at Castle Leisure Centre and at Ramsbottom Pool and Fitness Centre. 

To find out more about the temporary closure of Radcliffe main pool, visit www.bury.gov.uk/buryleisure or pick up a leaflet at the centre. 

ENDS

Press release issued: 13 May 2014.

Picture attached: The main pool at Radcliffe Pool and Fitness Centre.