An Aberdeen councillor has voiced fears that a derelict swimming pool could become a target for vandals and fireraisers.
Jennifer Stewart described the condition of the former Hazlehead swimming pool building as “utterly shameful”.
The Lib Dem member for the Hazlehead, Ashley and Queens Cross ward has now urged Aberdeen City Council to bring forward plans to reuse the building as a community facility.
She said: “The building is now a complete eyesore, it looks like it is in some derelict housing estate not next to an award-winning academy.
“I think it is disappointing that it has been left like this, it could attract vandalism, graffiti and it’s well known that derelict buildings are often targeted for setting fires.
“I campaigned vigorously to keep the pool open but Sport Aberdeen closed it and now nothing has been put in its place.
“The council must now bring forward plans to renovate the building, perhaps as a community facility.”
The Hazlehead pool, formerly run by Sport Aberdeen, was one of two community swimming pools axed on August 21 after Aberdeen City Council slashed the arms-length council body’s funding by £405,000 last February.
It argued that Hazlehead and Kincorth pools were simply not being used enough to justify keeping them open but the decision sparked backlash from hundreds of people who signed a petition calling for the facilities to be saved.
Yesterday city council finance convener Willie Young said the council was already giving thought to what the building could be used for.
He added: “The swimming pool has just recently been passed over to Aberdeen City Council from Sport Aberdeen.
“We are giving thought to what use the building can be used for other than a swimming pool.
“If Councillor Stewart or the community have any thoughts as to how this asset can be used, these would be most welcome given the powers we now possess under the Community Empowerment Act.”
