Peterborough Regional Pool may not open, says councillor

The Regional Pool in Bishop's Road was shut last month due to the discovery of Raac concrete

A swimming pool that was shut because unsafe concrete was found in the building may never open, a senior councillor has said.

Peterborough City Council deputy leader Steve Allen said he was unsure "when or if" Regional Pool would reopen.

Mr Allen said the council had "struggled" to get surveyors to the leisure centre since the closure.

Peterborough Lido, however, would remain open "as long as possible", the local authority said.

The Peterborough Lido has remained open for the first time in October

"As an alternative people can enjoy the lido as we plan to keep it open as long as we can," said Conservative Mr Allen.

The Regional Fitness and Swimming Centre in Bishop's Road first shut for repair work in August because asbestos was found.

Before that, in March this year, a strain of legionella was identified in the water system, impacting sinks and changing room taps.

The recent discovery of Raac (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) could spell the end for the building.

A new swimming facility at the Bretton's Coningsby Business Park may offer private lessons to children

The Regional Pool closure and the demolition of the St George's Hydrotherapy Pool, leaves Peterborough residents with limited public swimming options.

But, plans have been submitted by Swim Sports Company Ltd, better known as Swim!, for a new facility at two currently vacant warehouse units at a business park in Bretton.

The pool measuring 59ft (18m) by 23ft (7m) would offer private lessons for children aged 3-11.

A decision is pending on the application.