An Aberdeen swimming pool that has been closed to the public for more than a year could be resurrected with a multi-million pound upgrade.
With the closure of Hazlehead and Kincorth pools in August, 2016, many residents that once used their facilities switched to Northfield.
It welcomed more than 60,000 users each year until a plant failure forced it out of operation in March last year.
Concerns have been raised over its future ever since as long-planned works on the 1996-built pool that would have modernised and improved its offering had already stalled.
Now, however, a new report to next week’s capital committee recommends a large-scale overhaul of Northfield, making the major capital investment needed to bring it back into use.
It would be funded by both the council and arms-length operators Sport Aberdeen and sources suggest the cost could be about £3.5 million.
The plans would include essential repairs to the building, extending the wet changing facilities, adding a new gym and creating 31 additional car parking spaces.
>> Keep up to date with the latest news with The P&J newsletter
It is hoped the new additions will bring added revenue to the venue and make it more cost-effective,
The scheme for Northfield come as part of a nearly £30 million package of proposed works – including already approved projects – as part of the council’s three-year sustainability funds.
A report to councillors reads: “Northfield Swimming Pool was constructed in 1996 and is in the ownership of the council. Sport Aberdeen manage the operation of the facility.
“Following the failure of the mechanical plant, the pool closed in March 2018 and has remained closed ever since.
“There is no quick fix to the issues and the pool will not reopen without major capital investment.
“While well used (65,000-66,000 visits per year), it will always be limited by the lack of dry activity space.
“To position the facility properly for successful and sustainable operation for the next 20 years, the mechanical and electrical maintenance issues need to be addressed.”
Council operations convener John Wheeler said: “I think pools have been an emotive issue in the city in recent years.
“But while they are costly to run they provide immense benefits to residents.”
Kingswell, Sheddocksley and Summerhill Liberal Democrat councillor Steve Delaney said that Northfield was the closest pool for his constituents and its reopening would be “much welcomed”.
Opposition SNP capital spokesman Alex Nicoll said: “Everyone wants to see Northfield pool open but you have to question why the administration announced investment in March 2018 and only now, eighteen months later, are coming forward with plans.”
