Torquay swimming pool staff facing redundancy

STAFF at a Torquay swimming pool are facing redundancy in £600,000 revamp plans.

Swim Torquay in Plainmoor is due to close for 12 weeks from July while work is carried out.

It currently employs 22 staff members, with the majority employed on a part-time basis.

Peter Tysoe, director and fundraising manager for the pool, said: "We can confirm the consultation is officially part of a redundancy process.

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"We are looking forward to the future changes and re-opening of Swim Torquay with a much-improved future to help all in our community enjoy the benefits of this much under-rated facility."

The decision comes after the hard-pressed pool received a £450,000 cash boost from Torbay Council to secure its long-term future.

Sport England also awarded the pool £150,000 from its Inspired Facilities Fund.

The proposed work includes a full roof replacement, improved insulation, new windows and changes to heating and electrical systems to improve efficiency.

Mr Tysoe said: "The funding will now allow us to carry out the required alterations and upgrades needed to secure the pool's future for at least a further 25 years as identified in a survey carried out last year.

"One of the major issues with the pool for some time has been the fact that engineers could only say that the pool would be viable for another three to five years and a major failure would close the facility."

He said that the work offers the chance of further grants for upgrading the changing rooms and extending the facility.

Mr Tysoe said the closure should be for no more than 12 weeks. It has been timed to minimise disruption to schools, competitive clubs, swimming lessons and customers. He said possible closure dates will be advised as soon as they are confirmed.

Cllr Robert Excell, executive lead for sport in the Bay, said: "The council fully recognises that it is so important for the community to have the opportunity to learn to swim from a young age, particularly in an area where so many residents enjoy our beaches and clean bathing waters.

"There are many youngsters and young at heart today who have this essential life skill thanks to Swim Torquay and long may it continue."