Park paddling pool set to reopen after repairs
Derby City CouncilA paddling pool at a park in Derby is set to reopen for the summer holidays after being forced to close for emergency repairs in June.
The Markeaton Park paddling pool has been beset by maintenance problems in recent years, with Derby City Council previously stating it was approaching the "end of its lifespan".
The attraction opened for the May bank holiday and half term, but just weeks later it suffered damage to the pool surface.
Ndukwe Onuoha, city council cabinet member for streetpride, parks and leisure, said: "Our teams have worked hard to get it repaired and we are on track to reopen it for the summer holidays."
"The last step involves filling the pool and conducting final checks," Onuoha added.
"We need to monitor how the pool responds during this final phase before announcing the exact opening date, but everything is currently progressing as planned.
"Once open, our teams will be carrying out frequent checks to ensure the pool remains safe and enjoyable for everyone."
The pool was built in the 1970s to replace the original 1920s paddling pool, which was located in the same place.
Currently, the city council is "exploring" long-term options for the future of the site.
Conservative councillor Steve Hassall welcomed the reopening for the summer holidays.
"After the continued uncertainty and understandable concern from families, I am pleased that the council is now expecting the pool to reopen," he said.
"Markeaton paddling pool is a much-loved and well-used facility, particularly during the summer months."
However, the opposition councillor raised concerns over the cost of the latest repair work, and questioned what the long-term plan for "repairing or replacing" the pool would be.
"I will continue pursuing those answers and pressing for the underlying information I have requested."
The reopening date has yet to be confirmed.
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