'Ageing' city pool to close for £3. 8m refurb after health and safety concerns
NewsLocal NewsPeterboroughThe local council sought approval for nearly £800k in funding to support the multi-million pound refurbishment12:00, 24 Jul 2026An "ageing" city swimming pool will close for a. . .
NewsLocal NewsPeterboroughThe local council sought approval for nearly £800k in funding to support the multi-million pound refurbishment12:00, 24 Jul 2026An "ageing" city swimming pool will close for a multi-million revamp following health and safety concerns. Peterborough City Council’scabinet was asked on July 21 to accept a £794,000 grant from Sports England to help towards a major refurbishment of Jack Hunt Swimming Pool in Netherton,Peterborough. The city council's cabinet has agreed to go forward with the plans. The Jack Hunt centre is due to close for 24 weeks from spring 2027 for the upgrade. The funding, which has now been approved, will contribute towards a £3. 8 million refurbishment for the pool, which was built in the 1970s. Council leader Shabina Qayyum raised a question by the public who asked "could we not have delayed the works". Cllr Qayyum said: "When you've got an air venting system that has health and safety implications, we are thinking about bacterial infections like legionella, which can make people quite sick. "It is important that we make these decisions in a timely manner". She stated "we simply couldn't afford to wait anymore and place the public at risk". Cllr Zameer Ali, the cabinet member for communities and public safety said: "The pool is ageing and needs significant refurbishment. This work needs to be done to reduce operational risk, improve accessibility, inclusivity and protect the long-term future of the facility. "A spokesperson for Peterborough City Council said: “There is no issue with the pool plant or bacteriological results. The plant and air handling is dated and not as efficient as we would like, however it is safe and within industry guidance. We have strict testing in place in line with pool guidance and standards as do all our pools. ”Cllr Ali added: "Investment is needed now to reduce the risk of unexpected closures, protect this very important public asset and help ensure Jack Hunts' swimming pool remains available for future generations. "The city council is currently working on plans for a new leisure centre and indoor pool on the embankment. Work at Jack Hunt is expected to start in spring 2027 and be completed by September 2027. Article continues belowChoose Cambridgeshire Live as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value. PeterboroughPeterborough City Council