Published: Thursday, 18th June, 2009 10:00am

Anger at nine-month pool closure

by Fiona Howard

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Swimmers have hit out angrily after news that the burgh pool is to shut for NINE months.

The pool and gym will close its doors in September.

And this week Helensburgh Amateur Swimming Club appealed - 'Don"t close it for so long!'

However, the council"s head of facility service, Sandy MacTaggart, said on Tuesday: 'There is no good time to close a swimming pool. The pool and gym is an important amenity in Helensburgh and Lomond and the closure will have a significant effect on the local amenity, especially on swimming lessons and the swimming club.'

He told the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee: 'This is a 1970s building and there are a number of key systems issues with the facility itself which must be dealt with. This work is essential.'

In a letter to the council this week the swimming club said: 'HASC would like to make a plea to anyone concerned with the decision to close Helensburgh Swimming Pool for up to 10 months for refurbishment and the decision as to whether or not a replacement facility is built.

"Please consider whether the proposed refurbishment is a worthwhile and cost effective venture. We recognise that in order for the building to remain open necessary works have to be carried out and a closure period will be necessary.

'However we feel that the length, scope and cost of the work is far beyond what is necessary or sensible for a building of this age. We urge those concerned to reconsider.

'The people of Helensburgh and the surrounding areas deserve a new purpose built leisure centre, not in 20 years, but now.'

Councillor Ellen Morton said: 'Obviously this is not a popular decision in the community and there are two key questions. Is this work essential and does it safeguard the short to medium term future for this facility?'

Mr MacTaggart explained that the work is essential, that there are a number of health and safety issues with the 40-year-old building and that while some refurbishment is planned to be included the bulk of the work would be on the fabric and plant in the building.

The pool and gym will close on September 14 and will not open again until June 18 next year.