A COMMUNITY swimming pool is expected to remain closed for another year so extensive repairs can be carried out.

The pool at Consett Leisure Centre was closed last spring and unable to reopen after the first coronavirus lockdown due to safety reasons.

The facility opened in 2015 following the development of a new academy and leisure centre which also included the relocation of the town’s football club and the refurbishment of the rugby club.

Until 2018 the centre was managed by a third-party leisure trust.

Durham County Council took over the management of Consett Leisure Centre in 2018 and became aware of a number of significant defects, particularly regarding the pool area.

The situation was further complicated because the original construction contractor Carillion, which would be responsible for rectifying the issues, had gone out of business.

Durham County Councillor Owen Temple, who represents Consett, last year called for a thorough examination of the entire complex.

He said: “For months councillors have been left in the dark and unable to reassure anxious residents.

“It is essential now that we are provided with regular updates so that we can check that the project is running to target.

“We simply cannot accept any further delay.”

Durham County Council has now carried out a detailed technical assessment of the works required to repair the pool area.

It is understood the works are expected to take up to 12 months and will need to be delivered by a specialist contractor.

While works take place, the rest of the leisure centre will remain open.

Arrangements are being put in place to try and minimise the impact on site users as much as possible, including the provision of additional fitness classes.

Pool users will be accommodated at other centres.

Councillor Carl Marshall, the authority’s cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “Safety is our absolute priority and, although we will progress a solution as soon as we can, the pool area will regrettably remain closed until the works are complete.

“We remain committed to the provision of first class, accessible leisure facilities across the county to encourage physical activity that will help people live long and independent lives.

“We have ambitious plans to invest in, and transform, our leisure services as we regenerate our local economy, so our communities are able to access the services they rightly deserve.”

The authority Could take legal action over the extensive repair work that is needed.

Cllr Marshall added: “We are extremely disappointed and frustrated about the situation caused by historic contractor issues.

“We are considering our legal position.”