TONBRIDGE SWIMMING POOL fully reopened last week after the £150,000 roof repair works were completed.
The 25-metre pool was closed to members of the public from October 17, after structural damage to the building’s roof was discovered.
Run by Tonbridge & Malling Leisure Trust on behalf of the Borough Council, the pool reopened on December 27 with classes recommencing from Tuesday January 3.
The closure resulted in the cancellation of 68 classes a week, although some were able to take up places at Larkfield Leisure Centre. Use of the pool by local schools and the Tonbridge Swimming Club also had to be put on hold.
The council became aware of an issue with delaminating clay roof tiles ten years ago which continue to be replaced on a phased basis by the manufacturer under guarantee.
However during the latest phase of tile replacement on the roof in October, further structural damage was discovered which required extensive timber replacement and repairs.
For access and health and safety reasons, this involved substantial internal and external scaffolding requiring the closure and draining of the main fitness pool.
During the closure, pool members were able to swim free of charge at Larkfield and Sevenoaks Leisure Centre.
Robert Styles, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council’s Director of Street Scene, Leisure and Technical Services, said: “We would like to thank customers for their patience while the works were carried out and Tonbridge & Malling Leisure Trust for their work in contacting customers and providing them with alternative arrangements
