News that two East Lothian swimming pools won't be ready to reopen next week has been met with anger.
Facilities at Musselburgh and North Berwick Sports Centres won't open to the public on Monday, April 26 as the country takes a huge step out of lockdown.
This is due to "recent modernisation" works on behalf of East Lothian Council not yet being completed.
The improvements will see new "floating floors and dividing booms" installed in each pool. However the specialist contractor involved still needs to carry out additional works on new seals and panels before the pools are able to open safely.
East Lothian Council say people will be welcome at other enjoyleisure pools throughout the area when the reopen next week.
Tom Reid, Head of Infrastructure, East Lothian Council, said: “We’re very much looking forward to the re-opening of sports facilities in East Lothian.
“Unfortunately, following recent modernisation works, there is some snagging work which requires to be carried out by our contractor before the pools at Musselburgh and North Berwick can safely re-open to the public.
“We appreciate this will be frustrating and apologise to all users who would have been looking forward to a swim from next week, but it’s vital that this work is carried out in the interests of safety. Completion of the work has been complicated by the challenges of the current pandemic but we are committed to working with our partners at enjoyleisure and our contractor to completing this work as a matter of priority.
“When the pools re-open, users will reap the benefits of the investment in upgraded facilities, which will be a tremendous asset for local communities for many years to come.”
Bill Axon, Chief Executive, enjoyleisure, adds: “enjoyleisure deeply regrets having to delay the reopening of Musselburgh and North Berwick Swimming Pools. We know just how eager our customers are to return to the pool, and at these venues in particular.
“As East Lothian’s Charitable Health, Wellbeing & Leisure Trust, we are absolutely committed to providing opportunities for residents, and visitors alike, to enjoy the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle. However ensuring the safety of our customers is always our first and most important priority.
“Following the extensive maintenance work carried out to replace the floating floor functionalities at these pools, without knowing all inspection criteria has been met, enjoy , alongside our partners East Lothian Council, are simply not in a position to reopen these facilities to the public.
“We realise this announcement will come as a significant disappointment to our customers, loyal members, lesson participants and local swimming clubs. However, we are grateful that enjoyleisure can continue to provide further swimming pool provisions in Dunbar, Haddington, Tranent along with the FES managed Mercat Gait in Prestonpans, which will all be opening on Monday 26th April. We encourage customers to utilise these facilities wherever possible.”
People have been expressing their frustration at the news on social media.
James Harley commented: "Been closed for a year and you haven't sorted things out? Embarrassing to say the least."
Denise Fraser added: "This is really disappointing. You've just had four clear months to fix the place. Surely it would come under essential safety work? There are tradesmen working all over the place, working Covid safe."
Alana Vass said: "So angry, months of swimming lessons for children lost and now they've to wait even longer due to the bad management and incompetence. Not even a hopeful date given!"
Elizabeth Butterworth posted: "This is such a shame!"
