Fault shuts pool

A SENIOR councillor has apologised after a multi-million-pound swimming pool was closed down less than a year after it was opened.

Saddleworth Pool has been closed since last Wednesday, when inspectors ordered a shutdown after discovering a problem with the pool’s ventilation system.

Councillor John McCann, cabinet member for community services and housing, said: “There is no danger to the public. I would like to apologise for the inconvenience this temporary closure of Saddleworth Pool has caused.

“The shutdown was unavoidable, however, and was enforced upon us after a routine annual inspection was carried out.

”The boilers were due for servicing but the engineer said he had found an unexpected fault related to a ventilation issue and the pool would have to shut immediately.

“Regrettably, this is the busiest period of the year — boilers are being shut down for servicing at many venues — and we must await a return visit by the engineer to install and test a new part on Thursday or Friday this week.

“We hope to be back up and running shortly after that. The gym and dance studio remain open.”

The £1.5 million development of the gym at the baths is aimed at improving exercise provision in the area.

When it was launched chief executive of Oldham community leisure Ian Kendall said: “This is a great opportunity for people in Saddleworth to give their lifestyle a huge healthy boost and participate in some activity classes.”