Swimming pool to reopen after long campaign

Whitworth Leisure Centre was built in the 1970s

A swimming pool is due to reopen to the public after being saved by campaigners.

Whitworth Leisure Centre in Rossendale, Lancashire, was closed last year by the council amid financial concerns, prompting months of protests.

Volunteers formed the Whitworth Leisure Centre Community Interest Company and took over the running of the centre after raising funds.

The centre, which dates from the 1970s, includes a pool and gym facilities.

The closure promoted protests across the community

An update on the pool was given at the last meeting of Rossendale Council.

Councillor Alan Neal said: “The swimming pool has been refilled and it is not leaking.

"The hope is to reopen at the end of August. It’s a credit to the hard work by everyone.”

The centre was closed by the council amid finance worries but the decision sparked outrage.

The council said rising inflation and operating costs had forced them to act.

But campaigners said the pool was an essential resource for both the young and old, including school children’s swimming lessons.