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Cannock pool contractors to be fined over delay

Contractors who failed to complete Cannock's new flagship swimming pool on time are to be fined by the council.

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Contractors who failed to complete Cannock's new flagship swimming pool on time are to be fined by the council.

It was revealed today that a penalty for late completion had been written into the deal to build the pool at Chase Leisure Centre.

Leisure councillor Christine Mitchell said details were confidential but the bill is thought to be rising the longer the pool remains closed. No timescale has yet been set for the repairs to be completed. The baths have been hit by a technical problem that causes the tiling to crack when the water is heated.

The six-lane, 25-metre competition-standard pool had been due to open on August 8.

Councillor Mitchell said the council would be compensated for the delay.

"A fine for not having it open on time is written into the contract. I cannot reveal the financial details as they are confidential," she said.

"We have been in discussions with the contractor and are still waiting for a definitive plan of action from them, so there is no update on when the pool might open."

Specialists have been brought in by contractor, GF Tomlinson Ltd, to try to get to the bottom of the problem, which came to light when workmen heated the filled pool. The expansion caused by the rise in temperature put stress on the joints, resulting in cracks.

Clubs have been forced to book alternative pools.

The hold-up meant the new baths were closed over the summer holidays.

Leisure bosses who had hoped to capitalise on new swimmers being inspired by the Olympic and Paralympic Games in London have been left frustrated.

The new pool is part of the £6.5 million revamp of the leisure centre on the A34 Stafford Road.

Boasting a 200-seat spectator gallery, it is the jewel in the crown of the transformation, with a moveable floor that can be raised or lowered to create different depths.

The council says it is fine when filled with cold water, it was only when heated that the flaw emerged.

The contractor was unavailable for comment today.

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