Kettering swimming pool reopens but changing rooms remain closed

Kettering swimming pool has been reopened by Legacy Leisure following the phased reopening of fitness facilities.

Kettering Amateur Swimming Club members were the first to return to their regular club training sessions in September and their success meant Legacy Leisure opened up its swim lesson programmes at the beginning of October.

Members of the public are also able to start booking lane swimming.

Shirley Plenderleith, head of public services at Kettering Council, said: "We are aware that many residents have missed being able to access the pool over the past few months, and we are pleased that Legacy Leisure have re-opened with safety in mind for all."

Improvements at the pool include better water quality, improved energy efficiency, improved plant management. There is also a new automatic door entrance, a new reception desk which will include the installation of glass screens and customer registration points.

There is also new pool ladders and spectator rail and more than 200 pool tiles have been replaced.

Work is also undermway to improve the changing and shower facilities, but access to these facilities will be limited in line with Covid-19 restrictions.

Some visitors to the pool have been left unhappy by the lack of changing facilities, with one swimmer posting on social media.

She said: "I have just seen that Kettering swimming pool has re-opened. However be aware you have to arrive with costume on already under your clothes. You will be undressing in the pool hall, you can only book to swim lengths, fast, medium or slow, and after your swim you have to get dressed again in the pool hall, a quick towel dry putting dry clothes over your wet costume or take a dressing gown!

"So not a good idea if you're not a lane swimmer, or if you prefer to stay in the shallow end or go to the pool en route to work or visiting town afterwards. I understand that the changing rooms are undergoing a refurbishment (long overdue) but sadly I will not be visiting until they are available!"

Ms Plenderleith said: "I appreciate that the measures will make it a different experience, but we would like to assure users that these are in place to keep everyone safe. We hope all will enjoy the new facilities once the refurbishment works have been completed."

Cllr Scott Edwards, portfolio holder for community and leisure, said: "We are keen for local residents to have access to additional facilities to support good health and wellbeing, as the Covid-19 restrictions lessen.

"We know the benefits from keeping active and having access to such facilities can help to maintain a healthy weight and improve our wellbeing.

"We are pleased with the measures Legacy Leisure have put in place to be able to reopen the pool."

If you join Kettering swimming pool before Friday, October 17, you can join for £10 only.

You can visit its website for more details.