A POPULAR swimming pool is set to shut its doors for good after it was decided reopening it would be 'financially unviable.'

Allerdale Borough Council has announced that Keswick Pool will close permanently following recent investigations which unveiled significant costs.

The council say the pool, at Keswick Leisure Centre, is already more than 10 years past its anticipated lifespan. Maintenance work carried out during the pandemic while the pool was closed uncovered a number of age-related problems related to tiling, drainage and filters.

Concerns were also raised about the working order of the pool plant systems, given their age and the fact they have not been operational for over a year.

It is estimated that relining the pool and repairing drainage channels would cost between £150,000 and £200,000 - refilling the pool and reheating it would alone cost £20,000.

Last July, residents compared the pool to a swamp after the water turned green following months of lockdown.

Cllr Mike Johnson, Leader of the Council, said: “Keswick Leisure Centre has served us well over the years. However, despite all the maintenance that has been carried out, the pool is increasingly showing its age and it isn’t financially sustainable to run in the longer term – something the Covid pandemic has really brought into focus.

“Whilst I do apologise for any inconvenience caused to swimmers in the town, times and tastes have moved on, and we don’t want to throw good money quite literally down the plughole.

"That’s why we’re committed to making sure that the sports provision in Keswick – whatever that might be – is fit for the current and future needs of the town.”

Cllr Tony Markley, executive member with responsibility for leisure and tourism, said: “We’re committed to working with local councillors, residents and other stakeholders to invest into decent sporting facilities in Keswick.

"I’d also like to reassure all local residents that we’ll do what we can to continue to provide access to swimming facilities in our other pools, as well as keep the gym open.”

The popular gym at Keswick Leisure Centre will remain open and the council is keen to consult with local councillors, residents, business partners and other stakeholders on the future leisure provision for the town.

Allerdale Borough Council is carrying out a review of leisure services across the borough as part of an options appraisal in view of the contract with GLL currently having an end date of March 2024.

Throughout this process, Keswick residents, health services and businesses will be asked for their views.

Members of Keswick Leisure Centre will be able to use other pools in the area including Cockermouth, Workington and Penrith.