Wolverhampton pool closure 'will have detrimental impact' on nearby residents
The closure of a swimming pool at a £13 million leisure centre will have a 'detrimental impact' on nearby residents, a former mayor has warned.
Four months of repairs at Wolverhampton Swimming and Fitness Centre in Wednesfield have begun with maintenance being carried-out on the base of the pool and surrounding tiles.
It is not expected to re-open until December 24.
Wolverhampton city councillor Milkinder Jaspal has said that the closure is disappointing for residents in Heath Town and Wednesfield.
Councillor Jaspal, who was mayor of Wolverhampton for 2013/14, said he was concerned people would not be willing to travel across the city to swim at Central Baths in the city centre or the Bert Williams Leisure Centre in Bilston.
He said: "It came as sad news that the main pool would close for four months but unfortunately the work has to be done and it is one of those things. We have to comply with health and safety like anyone else.
"I think it will have a detrimental impact on people in Wednesfield, Heath Town and also Willenhall too who use the pool.
"My worry is that they won't be willing to travel over to Bilston or into the city centre."
Leisure bosses have frozen direct debits for swimming lessons in the main pool from this month and will then automatically reactivate them on the January 1 next year.
Swim-only members will have a 50 per cent discount on their direct debits for the closed period.
Those who pay fully in advance will have their membership extended by three months.
All inclusive direct debit members will get a 20 per cent discount and those who pay in advance will get a two month extension.
Councillor Jaspal added: "I'm sure the work will be completed as soon as possible.
"It is popular with youngsters and families and we just hope they continue to keep active because swimming is popular in Wolverhampton and this is a popular and well used site in the city."
