THE demolition of a former swimming pool is due to start next week.

Belle Vue Swim Centre, which closed last summer when Consett Leisure Centre opened, will be torn down with work starting on Friday.

Durham County Council has said the site has been earmarked for housing to form part of the funding package required for the multi million pound academy and leisure centre.

John Reed, the council’s head of technical services, said: “The former Belle Vue Swim Centre is being demolished as it is no longer required due to the opening of the new Consett Academy and Leisure Centre development opposite.

“Demolition work is scheduled to begin on April 4 and is due to be complete in August.

“We would like to assure people that every effort is being made to minimise disruption to the community throughout the works.”

The car park at the front of the site will be closed throughout the work as it will need to be used by demolition crews.

Mr Reed said the footpath to the school has to be closed to ensure public safety while the demolition takes place.

He said: “The car park is planned to reopen once the demolition is complete, as long as it is safe enough to use, to help ease parking issues before a long-term use for the site is found.

“We have been in contact with local councillors to keep them updated and will be issuing letters to local residents and businesses outlining details of the project ahead of work starting.

“We would like to thank the public for their patience while the work is carried out.”